Out of Time

by KorKor11

Bella Swan lost her life and then her memory, creating a confused newborn trying to put together the pieces of her missing past. With the aid of Tanya and Irina, she learns to control her vampiric abilities while avoiding the murderous Victoria. But no one can control when time rips her from the present and brings her to Katrina. Kate/Bella. Katella.

7. Chapter 7

Carmen was curled into Eleazar's side, reading her book as Eleazar watched something on the television. Occasionally he'd lean down and plant kisses on her head or rub the back of her neck to help relax her, and it worked, for a time.

It was difficult to read when Bella still wasn't back. Ghost followed Kate around in her absence, but seeing as the warrior was currently gone, the pup was now sleeping at Carmen's feet.

It had been a day and the newborn was still lost in time. No one took it worse than Kate, who was restless and agitated.

The warrior couldn't be consoled, not even by Carmen or Tanya. Currently, she was running around in the forest with Tanya, and while Carmen wanted to go with them, Eleazar had convinced her to give the sisters time to themselves.

"I'm not telling you to ignore her, I'm telling you to give her space." Alice's voice grew louder as she and Emmett came closer to the house. "I know you're excited to see her again, but..."

"This is Bella we're talking about," Emmett said. The two entered the house. "I know how to win her over. We were best buds!"

Alice sighed and crossed her arms over her chest. "I know, Em. But she's going through a lot. You can't push her, she'll run."

The largest Cullen cocked an eyebrow. "Run? I'm a teddy bear, Ally. If anything she'll run to embrace me."

The seer looked exasperated. "Emmett, this is serious-"

"And so am I." He frowned at her, voice raising slightly as he spoke. "We left her and I've felt like shit since. We're back now. I missed her, so much, and I can make things right."

Irina came downstairs from the bathroom. Her short, silvery hair was damp and she wore a puffy white robe.

She glanced over at Emmett and Alice. "There's nothing to make right. Bella most likely isn't angry with you." The youngest Denali made her way to Carmen and sat by her side. "Alice is right, Emmett. If you try to force things they'll never work."

Emmett scowled at her. "I'm not going to force things. I'm going to treat her as though we never left."

"But you did." Carmen reminded him. "You can't look at an apple and will it to be an orange. Your family left, as did her memories. She's not the same person anymore."

"So she's more confident and more gay. That's great. It doesn't mean she's a completely new person." He growled before shaking his head. "Whatever, I don't have to explain myself to any of you. Bella is still Bella. She stays in me and Rose's room. That has to mean something." Carmen was surprised by Emmett's willful ignorance. By his denial.

Alice grimaced, toying with the hem of her shirt as she spoke. "It's because Rosalie's memories resonate with her the most. You're not...you're not part of the reason she stays in there."

Carmen couldn't help but wince. She wondered if Bella's lingering love for Rosalie is what made her presence in her mind so strong. I'm glad Kate's not here. The warrior would become even more infuriated, and that was the last thing they needed.

Emmett clenched his jaw. "So she still tells you everything. But do you tell her everything?" Alice narrowed her eyes and her brother continued. "Like how you voted the night we left?"

"I had to!" Alice snapped. "I didn't want to leave-"

Her brother gave her a bitter smile. "You know, I've held back for a long time, and I am so goddamn tired of being the loveable idiot." He shrugged his broad shoulders. "You can lie to yourself and Bella and everyone else and tell them that you didn't want to leave, but you can't lie to me. You were desperate to get out of Forks. You couldn't stand the sight of her because you were ashamed. You didn't protect her from Jasper. Rose and I did!"

"Shut. up." Alice growled, hands curling into fists as she glowered up at him. The revelation was one that made Carmen's eyes widen.

She felt conflicted. Her heart went out to Alice for the shame she felt at what she deemed to be her failure. However, her quickness to shut Bella out, her closest friend, because of her lack of action, rubbed Carmen the wrong way.

She didn't know what to think.

"Emmett-" Eleazar started, but the vampire silenced him with a snarl.

"No, Eleazar!" His eyes were pitch black, and Carmen wondered if this was the angriest she had ever seen him. "I'm so sick of this. Of everyone telling me what's right and how to act. I'm not stupid!"

Alice's eyes widened. "We don't think-"

He ignored her. His furious gaze was still locked on Eleazar. "I don't need vampires like you or Carlisle or Edward trying to smooth talk me into being okay with decisions I don't get to make! They did it when we left Bella, and I won't let you influence my behavior now that I finally have my friend back!" He stormed off before anyone could speak another word.

Emmett disappeared into the garage where his mate resided. Her music was loud, something Carmen was relieved about. If Rosalie heard the argument she'd come running, and everything would get worse.

There was an uncomfortable silence after his departure. One that Eleazar broke. "I worry about him." He turned off the television. "He has a lot of bottled-up anger. If it goes unchecked..."

"We might get a new coven mate." Irina mused.

Carmen winced. "I'm...surprised by his reaction."

Irina looked at Alice. "Was what he said true?" When the seer said nothing she snorted. "I'll take that as a yes." She patted the open seat next to her. "I promise not to attack you, Alice, but I would like you to indulge my curiosity."

Alice sighed before joining them on the couch. It was a tight squeeze, and Irina momentarily tensed when Alice pressed against her. However, she was quick to adjust and relax against the seer.

"When your family voted to leave, Rosalie and Emmett voted no. You, Edward, and Jasper voted yes." Alice looked at her warily before giving a stiff nod. "Who was the deciding vote?"

This piqued Carmen's curiosity. If Esme voted to stay, then maybe I should reevaluate my anger towards her.

Bella had been abandoned by her biological mother. Then Esme left her. And then she witnessed the death of Sasha, which she hadn't yet experienced. But when she did, Carmen knew she'd be there to pick up the pieces, despite knowing that Bella would lash out at her. She still had to try.

My hija has been hurt so many times. No wonder she was so scared and angry when I first tried to reach her.

"I...I don't think it's my place to say." Alice mumbled, and Irina growled under her breath.

"Rina, that's enough." Carmen slipped her arms around her, and the younger girl sighed before leaning against her chest.

"Sorry." She glanced at Alice. "Did you not see the argument happening with Emmett?"

"It's the shifters." The seer grumbled. "I have to navigate these conversations blind. Or I get spotty visions that aren't much help."

"So you have to be like everyone else." Irina snorted, and Alice sighed in exasperation.

"Yes. It's awful." She leaned her head against Irina's shoulder. "How do you live like this?"

The blonde cracked the tiniest smile and rolled her eyes. "I take it one day at a time."

"You're-" she froze, eyes widening and staring vacantly at the television.

Carmen sat up, looking curiously at the seer. A loud slam of the garage door startled her, and Rosalie came stalking into the room.

"What did you say to him?" Her eyes were fixated on Irina, who rolled her own and nestled deeper into Carmen's arms.

"It was your dear sister he got into a quarrel with. Not me."

Rosalie looked taken aback, and she turned to Alice. "Alice-"

"Charlie...he's almost here." The seer shook her head furiously, "I don't know what he wants. The shifters...it's not clear enough. I think it might have something to do with Bella's disappearance. But how does he know we're here?"

"Charlie?" Carmen asked.

Rosalie spared her a glance. "Bella's father." She then looked back at Alice. "I went to the store to get Ghost more chew toys. This town gossips more than those trashy tabloids."

"Dammit, Rose! We're supposed to be careful! You didn't try to hide your face or anything?"

"I wore sunglasses." Alice looked as though she were close to strangling her. "I'm sorry, next time I'll pull my fake mustache out of my ass." Rosalie snarled before turning to Irina. "Please put Ghost in my room. Alice and I can handle Charlie." Irina didn't argue as she whisked the pup off the floor and upstairs.

Eleazar and Carmen stood as the sisters approached the door. "Let us know if you need anything." She assured them, and Eleazar nodded in agreement. They went into the kitchen so they were out of sight, and both were listening closely as they waited for Charlie to arrive.

Soon enough a vehicle pulled up outside of the house. And a few moments later an aggressive fist pounded against the door.

Rosalie rolled her eyes. "Cops."

Alice gave her a warning glare before opening the door. "Oh! Charlie, it's so good to see you-"

"Cut the shit." Charlie gruffly replied, slipping past the two and into the house. "Where the hell is my daughter? What have you done with her?"

Carmen stared at him in surprise. He looked worse for wear with bags under his eyes and gaunt cheeks. His hair was disheveled, going a little past his ears, and he bore an unkempt beard. The faint stench of whisky clung to his breath and his baggy coat, and tucked into the pocket was a couple of crumpled up papers.

The tension in his body made Rosalie stiffen. Ever since the night she had been changed she was extremely uncomfortable around drunk men. Charlie isn't completely drunk, but it's clear he's been drinking. It's clear he isn't completely sober. Carmen had to stop herself from whisking Rosalie away. Seeing her so on edge nearly broke her heart.

"Hello, Charlie-"

"Are you deaf? I asked you, where's my daughter?" He demanded, and her eyes squinted a fraction before she shook her head.

"I'm sorry, we just got back into town."

"Then you've seen the missing posters me and her friends have put out." His eyes narrowed. "Was it Edward?" His jaw clenched. "Jasper?" Alice tensed, but it was so minuscule that it was unnoticeable to the human eye.

Rosalie gave him a bewildered look. "What do my brothers have to do with this?"

Charlie gritted his teeth, face blooming red and veins appearing on his neck. "She had nightmares of Jasper. Screamed for him to stop...would you happen to know anything about that?"

"Is this an interrogation, Chief Swan?" Rosalie's eyes darted to his holstered gun, but he hadn't made a move for it once.

He ignored her and turned to Alice. "What about you, Alice?" He then shook his head. "Actually, I'll ask Jasper myself. Where is he?"

Carmen cleared her throat and his attention fell on her. "Hello, Chief Swan. I'm their aunt Carmen and this is my husband Eleazar." She introduced them with a gentle smile. "Jasper and Edward aren't in Forks. They're with Carlisle and Esme in London."

This only served to anger him further. "Of course they are!"

Alice tried to calm him. "We didn't know she was missing, but I promise you, Edward and Jasper had nothing to do with her disappearance."

His face reddened. "You and your family...I thought you were her friend!" He snarled, "And your brother, I knew I should have blasted him to bits the moment I met him!"

Eleazar gave him a stern look. "Chief Swan, there is no need for this-"

"Shut the fuck up. I'm not talking to you!" Charlie yelled before rounding on Rosalie. "And as for you. She adored you. She drew so many goddamned pictures of you and Edward and Esme when you bastards left."

Rosalie sneered at him, but Carmen could see the pain that flickered in her dark eyes. "I understand you're hurting, Charlie, but I had no control over any of this."

"You're right. You're the child in this situation," he scoffed. "The eighteen year old child who couldn't so much as bother to reply to Bella's texts or calls. But you're right! None of this is your fault, is it?"

Rosalie didn't have a response to that, and Alice cut in. "Charlie, you're drunk-"

Tears filled his eyes and he hugged himself. It was as though he feared that he would physically fall apart if he let go. Rosalie and Alice couldn't look at him. They could only stand there with glassy eyes, wanting to comfort the man but unsure how.

"Because any time I'm sober I want to fucking kill myself." His voice had grown quiet, and the tears streamed down his cheeks as a ragged breath escaped him. "My baby girl...she was everything and now she's..." he choked back a sob and Carmen couldn't stop herself from moving towards him.

"Chief Swan," she gently took his hand in hers, and he looked at her with watery eyes and a quivering lip. "I can't possibly imagine your pain. I have four daughters myself, and to lose any of them...it would tear me apart."

"I...I just...I can't…" he whimpered. "First Harry, now Bella. What if she's not alive? Or what if she is? What if she's waiting for me to save her?" He was breathing heavily now, tears continued to cascade down his cheeks, and his grip on her hand tightened. "Her ice-cream...she's waiting for her ice-cream. I keep sitting up at the kitchen table for her, waiting with her favorite ice-cream and...it melted." He threw himself at Carmen, burying his face in her neck and sobbing brokenly.

The vampire felt her own eyes burn with venom. It was so intense she thought that real tears would break through and roll down her cheeks.

"I'm so sorry." She held him tightly and allowed him to lean against her. "Let me drive you home. And Eleazar will buy some more ice-cream for her."

His sobs quieted and he continued to cling to her. "Mint. It has to be mint chocolate chip."

Carmen smiled and nodded. "Of course." She patted his back. "First thing in the morning my family and I will search for her. We know these woods better than anyone. In the meantime, you should get some rest."

When he finally pulled away he looked dazed and sorrowful. "Okay." The fight was out of him. Charlie falling apart had somewhat sobered him. Her neck and some of her hair was wet with tears, but she didn't mind.

The grief of a father. It was a look she was all too familiar with. A look that plagued her memory despite centuries of immortality.

"Mi amor, are you sure this is a good idea?" Eleazar murmured.

She glanced at him. "We can talk about this later. I need to take him home." She spoke up so Charlie could hear her. "Come, Chief Swan. You need to rest."

He handed her his keys and together they went to his car. It was filled with trash, wrappers and beer cans and more missing posters of Bella. Her heart broke for him.

She wished she could make things better. She wished the Volturi law wouldn't prevent Charlie from seeing Bella again.

"You know Rosalie and Alice. You know they wouldn't hurt Bella." He was much more collected now, though his eyes were still red-rimmed and he kept sniffling.

"I know." He sighed, rubbing at his eyes as he leaned his head against the window. "But I also know Jasper isn't innocent." A shaky sigh escaped him. "But maybe that doesn't matter. It's been months. Maybe I'm searching for a corpse." He croaked, and Carmen had to bite her tongue. She wanted so much to alleviate this man's pain, but she couldn't.

"What do you believe?"

Teary brown eyes looked at her. "She's alive and she's out there, I know she is." Carmen pulled into his driveway and he frowned. "How'd you know…" he shook his head. "I already told you, didn't I?" They exited the car. "How will you get home?"

"My husband is bringing mint chocolate chip ice cream. He'll take me home after."

Charlie nodded before awkwardly gesturing towards his house. "Would you...would you like to wait inside?" Before she could say anything he quickly said, "You're very beautiful but I'm not trying to hit on you, I promise. I just want to be a good host." His face was red. "And I feel bad for making such a scene and crying all over you."

Carmen smiled at him. "I understand. Thank you, Chief Swan. I wouldn't mind waiting inside." She followed him inside, surprised to see how tidy it was compared to his car. However, the lingering scent of shifters provided her with a possible explanation.

I wonder if they care for him.

"Would you like anything?"

"I'm fine, thank you." She sat at the kitchen table, and Charlie was about to join her when she stopped him. "When was the last time you slept?"

He looked away from her. "I...I guess I should try to rest, like you said."

"When Eleazar gets here we'll put the ice cream in your freezer before we go." She assured him.

Charlie nodded slowly. "Okay. Thanks." He hesitated before saying, "Uh, maybe you and Eleazar could stop by sometime and tell me about your daughters. Erm, if you want."

Carmen smiled widely at him. "We would love that. We'll bring you over some dinner...next Friday?." He bobbed his head before shuffling to his room. And when he collapsed into his bed is when his muffled sobs reached her ears.

---

Tanya growled as she darted after the red-haired vampire. Victoria was giggling as she bounced off the tree trunks. Chasing her was infuriating. She was two steps ahead of her and Kate, as though she were a mind reader.

"I'll tear Bella limb from limb." Victoria sang, laughing as Kate snarled. "You know," she launched herself from a tree limb, narrowly missing Kate's outstretched hands. "I'm sad I couldn't be with Laurent when he was torturing her."

Besides Victoria's taunts, the forest was eerily quiet. The sisters had been talking through Kate's struggle with Bella's disappearance when the redhead had made herself known. This is wrong. A trap.

Tanya clenched her jaw, turning to her sister and desperately trying to get her attention. "She's baiting us! We have to stop!"

Kate looked at her, but was swiftly distracted by Victoria. "I've heard her scream before, you know. James had his turn with her, breaking her bones and tearing her flesh with his teeth."

"I'll fucking kill you!" The warrior roared.

The redhead laughed. "She screamed so loud! I'd never heard something so satisfying before. I can't wait to hear her screams again-"

"Kate! Don't listen to her! She's-"

Her sister was too far gone. "I don't care! I'll kill her! I'll fucking kill her!" Tanya hissed, given no other choice than to follow.

Kate hadn't lost control like this in a while. It made sense, given that she had finally reunited with her mate, and now she was listening to Victoria boast about the harm inflicted upon Bella.

Kate takes it as a personal failure for not being able to protect her. Even though none of this is her fault. Noble warrior types like her and Jasper were always quick to blame themselves when things went awry.

"I kept waiting for her to come back when, really, I should have been out there searching for her." Kate had told her. "But I just wanted to be there when she got home."

Bella did that too. She found fault when there was none, like when she apologized to Tanya and Irina for killing Laurent to save her. Those two morons are a match made in heaven.

"You can kill me if you can catch me." Victoria taunted, making her sister snarl again.

Tanya knew in her gut that this was an ambush waiting to happen, but she would gladly walk into it with Kate by her side. I'll be damned before I leave her.

The scent of a foreign vampire made her eyes widen. "Kate!" A snarling newborn crashed into her younger sister, taking them to the ground and making Victoria laugh loudly as she once again slipped away.

Tanya raced to her side, only to be blocked by four other vampires. She bared her teeth, sidestepping the first one with ease as he charged at her.

She sends children to fight us? From a distance, she could make out red eyes watching her and she hissed. No. She sends children to test us. Everything made sense. The random attacks on the wolves, and now the attacks against them. She's studying us. Finding strengths and weaknesses.

Kate had the newborn on top of her screeching in agony. Electricity coursed through her body, and she was on her feet in an instant.

The warrior saw Victoria too, and she kept her glare directed towards her as she crushed the newborn's head beneath her foot.

Tanya ducked the fist flying towards her face and was quick to jump as the other newborn made a sweep for her legs. The moment her feet touched the ground she delivered two swift blows of her own, making one of the vampires fly backward and into Kate.

Her sister grinned, catching the newborn by her wrist and ripping off her arm. She yowled in pain and Kate tossed the limb to Tanya.

"Behind you." Tanya caught the limb and whipped around sharply, striking her attacker hard enough to make him stumble backward. She tossed the arm aside and nearly laughed as she took advantage of his surprise.

Tanya kicked her left foot and struck his ankle. He cursed as his leg buckled, and Tanya brought her right foot up to crush his calf.

The newborn howled as his leg broke into pieces, and the leader of the Denali's slipped her arms around his neck. She snarled as she pulled roughly, severing his head from his body with a loud snap.

His body fell to the forest floor and she turned to see how her sister was fairing. The last newborn was watching the warrior carefully, and her sister watched him with a smirk.

Kate looked like death incarnate as her black eyes gleamed with malice and mirth. At her feet laid three of his dead companions, and her body hummed with power as lightning danced across her skin.

While Tanya was often enthralled with her sister's power and battle prowess, she couldn't help but grow tired of waiting.

Taking the severed head of a newborn, she launched it as hard as she could at the last one standing. It struck him in the back of the head, making him stumble forward.

Kate's electricity died down, and she reached out and snatched him by his throat. He yelped, squirming desperately but to no avail.

The warrior looked back at the red eyes watching them. "Victoria!" She bellowed, voice powerful and commanding. "Today you will become a seer!" Kate grinned, all teeth. "This is the future you have brought upon yourself!"

Her grip on the newborn's neck tightened to hold him in place. She then brought up her fist, slamming it as hard as she could into his chest. A loud crack was heard and he wailed in pain. She did it again, and again, and again when she finally ran her entire fist through his chest.

Tanya's eyes widened when she saw her sister's fist stick out from the other side of the vampire's chest. The newborn shrieked in agony, and he was quickly silenced when Kate snapped his neck with ease.

Her sister looked furious and Victoria vanished into the trees, leaving the two alone.

Angered with her escape, Kate spit on the corpse at her feet. "Run away, coward! I won't stop until I have your head on a spike!"

Seeing Kate become so undone was a bit unsettling. Sometimes it seemed that she wasn't in control of her actions, but a slave to bloodlust. The type of bloodlust that inflicted warriors, the type of bloodlust that made them more dangerous than they already were.

"Kate," Tanya spoke gently, not wanting to startle her sister and make her attack. "We have to burn the bodies." The warrior either didn't hear her or was ignoring her.

She lifted up a severed head from one of the corpses and held it up. "I won't be satisfied until I have her head." She growled, a faraway look in her eyes. "She'll never touch Bella again. No one will." Her eyes made her look lost, as though she were in the wrong time period.

There was something about her, something that Tanya would never be able to understand. Kate looked as though she didn't belong on this battlefield, but one filled with swords and axes and arrows. She should be riding her warhorse and commanding her tribe to cut down their enemies. At that moment, Kate looked so out of place that it worried Tanya.

"Sister." Still nothing. "We should burn the bodies and go home. Bella could return soon. Don't you want to see her?"

Kate dropped the head and turned to her. Her eyes reverted back to gold and a soft sigh escaped her. "...yes. I miss her." Her brow furrowed. "Victoria has many newborns at her disposal. No doubt she's breaking the law with how many she's creating."

"You're not suggesting we call them…"

She sighed and turned away from her. "As much as I would love to personally kill Victoria...I care more about Bella's safety."

Tanya shook her head. "It's a favor for a favor. And with the Volturi, owing them anything is dangerous. Especially since you and Bella-"

"Don't we have some bodies to burn?" Kate grumbled, crossing her arms over her chest. "We have to tell our family what we know. What Victoria's planning." She looked troubled. "With as many newborns as she's creating...I worry." Kate glanced at her. "I'm sorry I didn't listen...I was just so angry and…"

Tanya moved forward, embracing her younger sister tightly. "I understand. Just, please, try to listen next time. I don't want anyone getting hurt, including you." She gave her a pointed look and Kate laughed before kissing her forehead.

"Yes ma'am." Nothing loosened her sister up better than a day with Bella or a good brawl. Her mood had improved significantly, and for that Tanya was glad. Kate glanced at the deceased vampires. "I win, by the way. Four to one."

Tanya scowled, though she was relieved that her sister was back to normal. "You went on a power trip. And I let you win." She smirked at her. "I want my baby sister to feel good about herself every once and awhile."

The warrior laughed as she began to put the bodies and their pieces into a pile. "Shut up and gather some wood, fuck ass."

The leader wanted to be annoyed with her, but she could only smile. "It'll be a cold day in hell when I start listening to you, damn shit."

---

Irina had screwed up when the first thing she did when she as a vampire was jump on Bela and kiss her. Being a newborn made her lust sometimes unbearable, and Bela was her angel. How could she not kiss her?

Bela had floundered and pulled away quickly. She had caught Katrina before she could attack Irina, and that's when the newborn remembered that the two were mates.

Her mother had looked beyond exasperated while Tatyana had laughed and made fun of her before helping Bela get Katrina out of the house.

But that had been three days ago, and she thought she was pretty well adjusted to Bela and Katrina being mates.

Irina liked Bela. She was kind and understanding and funny and all-around lovely. Katrina was fiery and brash and aggressive. She would glare at Irina whenever Bela would touch her or speak to her or smile at her.

It had gotten a little better over the course of three days, but her sister seemed distrustful of her. Bela didn't make it any better by doting on Irina the way she did, but she liked how sweet her savior was to her, even if it made Tatyana heckle them and Katrina glare.

Sometimes she wondered why Bela and Katrina were mated.

"Podvádzal si!" [You cheated!]

"Ja som to nesedí!" [I did not!]

"Strčil si ma z mojej sánky!" [You shoved me off my sled!]

"Nie," [No,] Bela smiled impishly. "Snažím sa od teba držať ruky preč, a ty si sa stal prepadákaný a spadol." [I struggle to keep my hands off of you, and you became flustered and fell.]

Katrina scowled at her. "Schmatol si ma za ramená a tlačil si ma tak silno, ako len mohol!" [You grabbed my shoulders and pushed me as hard as you could!]

Her smile fell and she frowned at the blonde. "Len preto, že si na mňa hodil strom, aby som havaroval!" [Only because you threw a tree at me to make me crash!] She put her hands on her hips. "To všetko vyhrať preteky!" [All of that to win a race!]

"Už som ti tisíckrát povedal, že ten strom reprezentuje moje srdce! Dával som ti ho!" [I've told you a thousand times, that tree represented my heart! I was giving it to you!]

Gold eyes narrowed. "Nedal si to, hodil si to. To je agresívny spôsob ako ukázať lásku." [You didn't give it, you threw it. That's an aggressive way to show love.]

"Páči sa ti keď som agresívny." [You like it when I'm aggressive.] Katrina declared, moving her face closer to Bela's and making her mate laugh.

"Páči sa mi, keď na mňa nehádžeš stromy." [I like it when you don't throw trees at me.]

Red eyes widened in mock surprise. "Nepáči sa ti, keď ti symbolicky dávam svoje srdce?" [You don't like it when I symbolically give you my heart?]

Bela's eyes glittered with mirth, and she reached out and cupped her cheeks. "Čo je symbolické na hádzanie borovice na mňa?" [What's symbolic about throwing a pine tree at me?]

Katrina grinned, slipping her arms around her mate and pulling her closer. "Rovnako ako moja láska k vám je nadčasová, tak je navždy zelená borovica." [It's an evergreen! Just as my love for you is timeless, so is the forever green pine tree.]

The shield laughed and gave her a small kiss. "Veľmi sladké. Vieš, že zhnednú a zomrú, však?" [Very sweet. You do know they turn brown and die, right?]

She rolled her eyes. "Snažím sa ti povedať pekné slová, ale zase ich zničíš praktickosťou." [I try to tell you pretty words, but again you ruin them with practicality.] She huffed. "Jemné. Kmeň stromu predstavoval, aké ťažké by som bol pre teba, keby som bol muž." [Fine. The trunk of the tree represented how hard I'd be for you if I were a man.]

Bela gagged, wrinkling her nose and laughing as she darted out of her arms. "Si nechutný!" [You're disgusting!] The smile on her lips betrayed her mock outrage.

"Nezoberal by si moju básnickú odpoveď! Čo ešte mám povedať!" [You wouldn't take my poetic answer! What else am I supposed to say!]

"Mal by si byť úprimný a priznať si, že si som sas!" [You're supposed to be honest and admit that you're an ass!]

"A čo ťa to robí za to, že si ma tlačil!" [And what does that make you for pushing me!]

"Odôvodnené!" [Justified!]

Tatyana sidled up to Irina, crossing her arms over her chest and smirking at the quarreling mates. "Tí dvaja sú absurdní." [Those two are absurd.]

Irina smiled. Sometimes she wondered why Bela and Katrina were mated, but oftentimes she didn't have to.

Bela laughed and batted away Katrina's grabby hands before speeding closer to her and Irina. Her angel slipped behind her, placing her hands on her shoulders and peeking out at her mate.

"Vidíš, ako sa ku mne správa, Rina?" [Do you see how she treats me, Rina?] She sighed, earning her a laugh. Instead of looking annoyed, however, Katrina looked at Irina in mild confusion. The younger vampire shifted uncomfortably under her scrutiny and decided to ignore it.

"Je veľmi drzá." [She's very rude.] She smiled at her angel's hum of approval.

Tatyana gave her a look. "Nenechajte sa dostať do ich hlúpe hádky, ak môžete pomôcť." [Don't get into their stupid squabbles if you can help it.] She groused, "Potom buď dostanete elektrickým prúdom, alebo naraziť na štít v danom okamihu-" [Then you either get electrocuted or you run into a shield at any given moment-]

"To bola raz a bola to nehoda." [That was once and it was an accident.] Bela huffed, resting her chin on Irina's shoulder.

Their sister rolled her eyes. "Môj názor stále platí." [My point still stands.]

Katrina, however, was now looking at Bela with a frown. "Rina…Už ste mi spomenuli Rina?" [Rina...have you mentioned a Rina to me before?]

She noticed Bela tense ever so slightly, and she hugged Irina closer to her. "Už som?" [Have I?]

The blonde crossed her arms over her chest. "Keď som bol človek...nepovedala si, že Rina je tvoja priateľka, a že je veľmi pekná?" [When I was human...didn't you say Rina was your friend, and that she was very pretty?]

The brunette shrugged. "Viem že som spomenul Rose, a môj tvorca, Rosina." [I know I mentioned Rose, and my maker, Rosina.]

"Hm, možno to bolo ono." [Hm, maybe that was it.] Katrina mused before crossing her arms over her chest. "Teraz ju môžeš prestať objímať." [You can stop hugging her now.]

In retaliation, Bela stuck her tongue out at her. "Je to naša malá sestra! Je rozkošná, prečo by som ju mal prestať objímať?" [She's our baby sister! She's adorable, why should I stop hugging her?] If Irina could she would blush.

Her little crush on Bela was just that, little. She knew nothing would come of it, but the brunette cared so much about her, saved her, and she couldn't help but adore her for it.

Her feelings were harmless enough. She wasn't bitter at seeing Katrina and Bela together, but if Bela gave her a kiss she wouldn't mind that either.

However, Bela respected her mate's request and released Irina. The brunette gave her a smile before going over to Katrina, who perked up instantly when she wrapped her arms around her shoulders. The warrior purred, nestling into Bela's arms and slipping her own around her waist.

"Rozmaznávaš Irina akoby si bola jej stvorinou." [You spoil Irina as though you're her maker.] Tatyana mused. "Je to zvláštne. Nikdy som sa takto k Katrine nesnášol." [It's odd. I never treated Katrina like that.]

Bela rolled her eyes. "Očividne som lepšia sestra." [I'm clearly a better sister.] Tatyana scowled at her but it went ignored. "A Irina je novorodenec. Potrebuje trochu viac pozornosti." [And Irina's a newborn. She needs a bit more attention.] She then laughed. "A matka povedala, že si bola rozmaznaná predtým, ako sme prišli s Katrinou." [And mother says you were spoiled before Katrina and I came.]

"Naša matka nevie, o čom hovorí." [Our mother doesn't know what she's talking about.] Their eldest sister smirked. "Áno, Irina potrebuje viac pozornosti, nie čaj v ústach." [Yes, Irina needs more attention, not your teat in her mouth.] The newborn ducked her head bashfully and Bela scoffed before assuring her that Tatyana was only teasing.

Katrina glared at Tatyana. "Ďakujem vám za ten strašný obraz." [Thank you for that harrowing image.] She held onto her mate tighter.

Tatyana shrugged, looking very pleased with herself. "Čo môžem povedať? Som umelkyňa v srdci, sladká sestra. Páči sa mi maľovať obrázok." [What can I say? I'm an artist at heart, sweet sister. I like to paint a picture.]

"Páči sa ti byť obťažujúce." [You like to be a nuisance.] She released Bela, who already looked exasperated by whatever Katrina had planned.

Tatyana snorted. "Ste jeden hovoriť-OW!" [You're one to talk-OW!] Katrina cackled as her sister snarled and swatted at her.

The warrior danced away from clawed hands with another loud laugh, and Tatyana glared at her. "Matka nemá rada keď to robíš!" [Mother doesn't like you doing that!]

"Dobre že tu nie je." [Good thing she's not here.]

"Damn shit!"

"Fuck ass!"

Irina perked up. Bela had prepared her for this. "Bitch dick!" Her sisters looked at her in surprise and Bela burst out laughing.

Katrina looked affronted. "Učíš všetkých tie slová?" [Do you teach everyone those words?]

She smiled broadly at her and kissed her nose. "Iba moja silná bojovníčka a moje krásne sestry." [Only my strong warrior and my lovely sisters.] The warrior seemed appeased by this answer.

Irina felt the dull burn in her throat amplify, and she hissed in discomfort. Bela looked at her worriedly and Tatyana gestured to Katrina.

"Choď na lov našej sestry." [Go take our sister hunting.]

Katrina scowled at her. "Nie si naša matka. Nemusím ťa počúvať." [You're not our mother. I don't have to listen to you.]

Bela slipped out of her mate's arms. "Je najstaršia. Mal by si ju počúvať." [She's the eldest. You should listen to her.] Tatyana looked surprised by this and Katrina crossed her arms over her chest.

"Prečo?" [Why?]

Irina grimaced and looked away from her. She hadn't meant to make Katrina dislike her. If anything she had been ruled by her newborn instincts.

Katrina noticed her distress and she sighed in annoyance. "Pokuty." [Fine.] Irina instantly perked up, smiling widely as her sister rolled her eyes. "Urobme to rýchlo." [Let's make this quick.]

Tatyana grinned at Bela. "Ďalší tréning? Alebo možno pôjdeme na vlastné dobrodružstvo." [More training? Or perhaps we'll go on our own adventure.]

"Už ma nebaví trénovať. Poďme na dobrodružstvo." [I'm tired of training. Let's go on an adventure.]

"Ano! poď za mnou!" [Yes! Follow me!]

Bela waved at them. "Vy dvaja sa zabávate," [You two have fun,] she eyed Katrina. "A byť milý." [And be nice.] The two took off into the mountains, leaving Irina alone with Katrina.

Her older sister stared in the direction of her mate for a moment before turning to her. "Na sever odtiaľto je niekoľko domov. Sú izolovaní, takže sa nebudeme musieť obávať, že budeme pútať zbytočnú pozornosť'-" [There are a few homes north of here. They're isolated, so we won't have to worry about drawing any unnecessary attention-]

"Je mi ľúto!" [I'm sorry!] Irina blurted out, making Katrina frown at her in confusion. "Za bozkávanie Bela. Nechcel som ťa rozčuľovať, ani ťa do toho, aby si ma nenávidel." [For kissing Bela. I didn't mean to upset you or make you hate me.]

"Nemám ťa nenávidím." [I don't hate you.] The warrior huffed. "Nie som šťastný že si pobozkal moju Bela ale..." [I'm not happy that you kissed my Bela but…] she made a frustrated noise before shaking her head.

"Náš druh je veľmi majetnícky našich kamarátov. A ja som mladší, takže to všetko komplišuje." [Our kind is very possessive of our mates. And I'm younger so it makes everything more difficult.] She gestured with her head to follow and the two began running. "Ale aj ty si mladý. Nepremýšľal si." [But you're young too. You weren't thinking.]

Irina nodded. "Nebol som...Bol som len emotívny. Myslel som, že je anjel, keď som ju prvýkrát stretol. Keď ma pred tebou chránila, len som..." [I wasn't...I was just emotional. I thought she was an angel when I first met her. When she protected me from you I just…]

"Rozumiem." [I understand.] They continued their run. "Keď som prvýkrát stretol Bela myslel som si že je démon." [When I first met Bela I thought she was a demon.] Irina's eyes widened and Katrina smiled. "Bol som dieťa a ona mala červené oči. Snažil som sa s ňou bojovať, ale bohužiaľ, môj drevený meč sa nezhoduje." [I was a child and she had red eyes. I tried to fight her, but alas, my wooden sword was no match.]

The newborn laughed at that. "Napadol si ju dreveným mečom? Máš šťastie, že ťa nezjedla." [You attacked her with a wooden sword? You're lucky she didn't eat you.]

Katrina rolled her eyes. "Robí pre hrozného démona. Nemyslím si, že by ma mohla zjesť, keby sa o to pokúsila." [She makes for a terrible demon. I don't think she could have eaten me if she tried.]

Bela je celkom milá pre upíra. [Bela is pretty nice for a vampire.]

She looked at her sister curiously. "Aký si bol ako dieťa?" [What were you like as a child?]

"Hlasný." [Loud.] Red eyes glimmered with mirth. "Môj otec povedal že som príliš drzý pre svoje vlastné dobro. Príliš drzý a príliš statočný." [My father said I was too brash for my own good. Too brash and too brave.]

Irina frowned. "Čo je zlé na tom byť príliš statočný?" [What's wrong with being too brave?]

"Statočnosť je dobrá, ale príliš veľa z toho je hlúpe." [Bravery is good, but too much of it is stupid.] She told her, "Musíte vedieť, kedy byť statočný a kedy sa báť. A odtiaľ budete musieť zistiť, či riziko stojí za to. Musíš zistiť, či byť statočný stojí za to." [You have to know when to be brave and when to be afraid. And from there you have to figure out if the risk is worth it. You have to figure out if being brave is worth it.]

"To znie...Ťažké." [That sounds...difficult.]

Irina couldn't help but envy Katrina's human life. She wished she could have fought for her tribe and been an honorable warrior. She'd have good stories to tell and sage wisdom to bestow unto others.

Ale všetko čo viem je ako pracovať na poli a mlieko kozy. [But all I know is how to work the field and milk the goats.]

They came across an isolated house, just as Katrina said they would.

Irina didn't like killing humans. She didn't like how they screamed and thrashed and cried out of their gods or their loved ones.

In the heat of the moment, it was always easy to overlook their deaths. Her throat burned and their blood quenched it. But the aftermath was always a hideous sight.

Irina wouldn't mind converting to Bela's way of hunting. She had gone with her once, but the taste of animal blood paled in comparison to the sweetness of human blood.

Nie som dosť silná na to aby som bola zvieracia pijanka. [I'm not strong enough to be an animal drinker.]

The very scent of the humans drove her into a frenzy, and all rational thoughts were shadowed by bloodlust. As she descended upon them their screams became muffled, and no longer did she see people, but a life source. A way to make the pain in her throat go away.

When Irina came to, she was covered in blood and three corpses laid at her feet. For her own sake, she refused to look at them. The ache in her throat was gone, she was satisfied, but she wished she could be strong enough to resist the bloodlust.

Katrina had drained one human, and although she was relatively cleaner than Irina had been, specks of blood still dotted her tunic and crimson stained her lips. The warrior scooped the corpses up and went outside, tossing them into the snow with a satisfied nod.

"Vrany ich budú mať. Alebo nejaké iné zviera." [The crows will have them. Or some other animal.]

They traveled back to the house. Her sisters and mother had yet to return, leaving them alone for a while longer.

Irina changed her clothes upstairs while Katrina laid sprawled out on the floor downstairs.

"Zabudol som sa opýtať aký si ako dieťa." [I forgot to ask what you were like as a child.]

Irina adjusted her dress, walking downstairs, and sitting next to the warrior. "Tichý a plachý. Nikdy som nechcel spôsobiť problémy, tak som si to nechal pre seba." [Quiet and shy. I never wanted to cause problems, so I kept to myself.] She frowned. "Boli ste príliš drzý, bol som opak...stále som opak." [You were too brash, I was the opposite...I still am the opposite.]

Katrina hummed. "Stále som príliš drzý. Spôsobuje to veľa nedorozumení medzi mnou a Blea." [I'm still too brash. It causes many misunderstandings between me and Bela.] She sounded sheepish. "Nedorozumeniam, ktorým by sa dalo predísť, keby som neskočil k záverom. Keby nič iného, kiež by som bol trochu tichší. Myslím, že by mi to ušetrio veľa problémov." [Misunderstandings that could have been avoided if I hadn't jumped to conclusions. If anything, I wish I were a bit quieter. It would save me a lot of trouble, I imagine.]

"No, kiež by som bol trochu brasher." [Well, I wish I were a bit brasher.]

Her sister smiled before sitting up and gently clasping her shoulder. "Možno by sme sa mohli učiť jeden od druhého. Naučím ťa, ako ti ukázať zuby a ty ma môžeš naučiť, ako skryť moje." [Perhaps we can learn from each other. I'll teach you how to show your teeth and you can teach me how to hide mine.]

Irina blinked in surprise. She didn't think Katrina would warm up to her this quickly. Tatyana had told her that it took weeks for the two to finally start getting along.

Ale tu je, dáva mi šancu po niekoľkých dňoch. Potom, čo som pobozkal jej kamaráta. [But here she is, giving me a chance after a few days. After I kissed her mate.]

Katrina noticed her shock and she removed her hand with a huff. "Snažil som sa byť...pokojnejšie. Bela mi pomáha dať rôzne perspektívy a ona ma chce byť...lepšie, myslím. Bola by rada, keby sme spolu vychádzali." [I've been trying to be...calmer. Bela helps give me different perspectives and she makes me want to be...better, I think. She would like it if we got along.]

The newborn's elevated mood soon came crashing down. "Spriatelil si sa so mnou aby som ju urobil šťastnou?" [You're befriending me to make her happy?]

The warrior didn't seem to notice her agitation. "Nepožiadla ma o to, ale viem, že bude šťastná, keď si budeme blízki, ako pravé sestry." [She didn't ask me to, but I know she'll be happy when we become close, like true sisters.] Irina clenched her jaw and looked away from her. "Co?" [What?]

"Nič." [Nothing.]

Katrina sighed. "Čo som povedal? Mali by sme sa učiť jeden od druhého. Niečo ťa trápi. Ukážte si zuby a nechajte to obťažovať vás už." [What did I say? We should learn from each other. Something is bothering you. Show your teeth and let it bother you no longer.]

A riskovať začatie boja medzi nami? [And risk starting a fight between us?

"Nič ma netrápi." [Nothing is bothering me.] Katrina shoved her and she yelped as she slid across the floor. "Čo do pekla!" [What the hell!] She got to her feet quickly and balled her hands into fists.

The warrior jumped to her feet and grinned maniacally at her. "To je všetko! Ukážte svoje zuby!" [That's it! Show your teeth!]

"Jemné! Obťažuješ ma!" [Fine! You're bothering me!]

"Veľký! Ako?" [Great! How?] She encouraged, and Irina snarled angrily at her.

"Nestaráš sa o to, aby si ma spoznať. Záleží ti len na tom, aby si zapôsobila na Belú!" [You don't care about getting to know me. You only care about impressing Bela!] Katrina's excitement faltered at that and Irina continued. "To je všetko, čo robíš? Snažíš sa jej to dokázať? Preto si blízko Tatyana? Preto si upír?" [Is that all you do? Try to prove yourself to her? Is that why you're close to Tatyana? Is that why you're a vampire?]

Katrina bared her teeth at her. "Ničomu nerozumieš!" [You understand nothing!]

"Tak o čo ide?" [Then what is it?] She challenged, and Katrina looked away from her. A myriad of emotions crossed her face. Anger. Confusion. Sadness.

To Irina's surprise, Katrina's shoulders drooped and red eyes glanced up at her. "My Bela je tak dokonalý a ja som...nie." [My Bela is so perfect and I'm...not.] The anger returned in her voice and she growled at Irina. "Musím byť dokonalá, pretože si nezaslúži nič menej!" [I have to be perfect because she deserves nothing less!]

Insecurity looked wrong on Katrina. The warrior always seemed so sure of herself, so confident and proud. But now she caved in on herself, doubted herself. Irina supposed that's what happened when someone tried to achieve an impossibility.

"Chcela ťa, aby si bol pre ňu perfektný?" [Did she ask you to be perfect for her?]

Katrina scowled. "Samozrejme že nie." [Of course not.]

Irina couldn't help but roll her eyes. "Z miesta, kde stojím, vyzerá veľmi zamilovaná do teba, aj keď nie si dokonalá." [From where I'm standing, she looks very much in love with you, even though you're not perfect.] She toyed with the frills on her dress before saying, "Nepoznal som vás ani Bela veľmi dlho...ale nemyslím si, že by sa jej to páčilo." [I haven't known you or Bela for very long...but I don't think she'd like this.] Katrina didn't look at her. "A myslím že to vieš tiež." [And I think you know that too.]

"Máš pravdu. Nevieš to-" [You're right. You don't know-]

The youngest Denali glared at her sister. "Povedal si, že sa môžeme učiť jeden od druhého. Teraz sa môžete naučiť, ako zostať ticho. Premyslite si veci, než ukážete svoje zuby." [You said we could learn from each other. Now, you can learn how to stay quiet. Think things over before you show your teeth.]

Katrina growled but didn't retaliate, much to Irina's surprise. "Jemné...Budem premýšľať a potom ukázať svoje zuby." [Fine...I will think and then show my teeth.] A look of approval shown in red eyes.

Irina couldn't help but crack a smile at that. "To je všetko čo žiadam." [That's all I ask.]

---

Bella was spit into the present, just outside the Cullen household, and Emmett made sure he greeted his old friend heartily.

"Bellsy! How was the past? What did you see? Have you met me yet?" He asked earnestly. Bella gave him a strange look and tensed when he wrapped her into a gentle hug.

That's normal. She just has to get used to me again. He smiled when she awkwardly patted his back in return. It was reminiscent of the first time they met, though Bella had been blushing heavily and stumbling over her words.

Now she was self-assured, strong, and confident. She pulled away from him, still looking a little confused and somewhat uncomfortable.

"The past was...fine. I just spent time with my family, as I normally do." She spoke with a strange formality, one reserved for strangers, and that wouldn't do at all.

"Well, what'd you guys do?" He frowned. "Sorry. What'd you gals do?" This made a small smile appear on her lips, and he couldn't help but grin at the sight.

Before she could say a word, Kate came rushing out of the house. "You're not allowed to leave again." Bella's small smile broadened, and she laughed as Kate tackled her to the ground.

The warrior peppered her face with kisses, and Bella slipped her arms around her waist. Gold eyes burned with affection as she caught Kate's face in her hands and brought her lips to hers.

Emmett looked away and stepped back, trying to give them some privacy as he eagerly awaited to speak to his friend. They're cute. He was so happy for Bella. Kate was a powerful and loving vampire, a good mate to have.

I wonder how human Bella would have reacted to Kate. The thought of the flustered girl encountering his cousin nearly made him laugh. I'd pay good money to see that.

When they finally got to their feet Alice and Rosalie came outside next. Irina and Tanya had taken Carmen and Eleazar with them to check the border for Victoria or any newborns. He contemplated texting Carmen that Bella had returned but decided not to. They'll know when they get here.

Bella didn't have the same reservations when greeting the other two Cullens. She grinned as Alice jumped into her arms and they hugged tightly.

She interacted so easily with Rosalie and Alice. He almost envied them. She doesn't know how Alice voted. She doesn't know how quickly Alice had run away from her. How willing she was to give up on their friendship.

His thoughts startled him. He wasn't sure where this anger had come from, but it had been building up for a long time. Relax. Bella's gotten used to Rose and Alice. Soon she and I will be like we once were.

When Bella set Alice down she smiled at Rosalie. "Hey, Rose." While she was openly more comfortable with his mate, he noticed that Bella seemed to be unsure of how to greet her.

Rosalie stared at her for a moment. "You were gone for a little over a day...Ghost missed you."

Bella reached out and took her hands in hers. "Well, I missed Ghost too." She winked at Rosalie before giving her a quick hug. "I missed him almost as much as I missed my begrudging bestie-"

His mate snorted but embraced her. "Yes, well, that's enough of that." Kate watched the two closely, as though she didn't trust Rosalie, and he almost laughed at that.

When Rose said she was jealous, I didn't realize she was this jealous. It was strange. He didn't know what to make of Kate's jealousy or why she even was in the first place. Nothing had happened between his mate and Bella, and if anything, she was more intimate with Irina and Alice.

Bella pulled away and glued herself back to her mate's side. "I was gone for three days...but one day here? Weird. So, what did I miss?"

Emmett tensed and sucked in a breath. Charlie. That's what you missed. He had heard her father from the garage, ranting and raving and cursing. The man's pain had weighed heavily on his heart, and it made him think that Edward's reluctance to turn Bella had merit.

I didn't think about Charlie. I was only thinking of Bella being my sister for eternity.

Alice winced and said, "Charlie came by the house." Emmett expected a reaction. Surprise. Sadness. Something.

Instead, Bella stared at her blankly. "Who?" Right. Memory loss. It was sadder, he thought. Charlie is so desperate to find his daughter. But she's right under his nose and has no clue who he is.

"Your father," Rosalie explained, looking uncomfortable as she spoke. "He's struggling with your disappearance. He's still searching for you."

Bella frowned and rested her chin on Kate's shoulder. "Well, you can tell him to stop. I'm dead."

Alice looked at her in disbelief. "Bella, he's your father. He's a wreck!"

"I'm not trying to be rude." The newborn sighed. "But I don't know what you want from me. I can't remember him-"

"Have you tried?" Emmett suggested, making Bella roll her eyes.

"There may be things I don't want to remember, but it's not like I'm able to actively suppress any memories or voices." She sounded bitter now. "Believe me, I've tried."

Kate looked contemplative, holding Bella closer to her and turning to Alice. "What would you have her do? She can't visit him, and we can't reveal what she is."

Rosalie pursed her lips. "Well, we need to figure something out. He might come back here and…" she shook her head. "I'm worried about him. I'm worried that he'll hurt himself."

This gave Bella pause, and she sighed. "I'll...I don't know. I'll come up with something." An awkward smile crossed her lips. "I uh...I accidentally tasted human blood. I didn't kill anyone but…" she cleared her throat. "So I don't know if I should risk being around any humans right now."

Kate's eyes widened. "Fuck."

The brunette gently rubbed her back, a laugh in her voice as she spoke to her. "It's totally your fault-"

"Shut up. This isn't funny!" Kate complained. "I felt so bad."

"I'm fine, I just have to be careful around humans. And you might have felt bad, but I didn't," Bella murmured, eyes darkening as her mate glared at her.

"Newborns." She huffed, though Emmett could tell the warrior was enjoying herself. "Your kind is incorrigible." Bella rolled her eyes but a smile played on her lips as she kissed Kate's temple.

"You're one to talk."

Emmett looked in between the two of them. "Do we...do we want to know any of this context?"

Bella gave him a devilish smile, one he had only seen when she had one too many shots of tequila. "No. Just know that Kate started it."

"Gross." Rosalie sniffed and put her hand up. "That's quite enough." Kate stuck her tongue out at her while Bella laughed.

Emmett cracked a smile as he slipped an arm around his mate. When Bella can control her bloodlust we should all go on a double date. It would be hilarious, at the very least, to watch Kate and Rosalie argue over nothing and everything.

Alice looked troubled. "If you've tasted human blood recently...we shouldn't go to Charlie just yet. Maybe that will give us time to plan how we're going to approach him."

Bella nodded in agreement, and Kate looked eager to change the subject. "In other news, Tanya and I found Victoria. She led us into an ambush-"

"An ambush?" Bella's eyes widened and she cupped Kate's cheeks. "Are you okay? Is Tanya?" She let go of her and scratched the back of her neck. "This is all my fault…" she frowned in realization. "Wait, no it's not."

Kate's laughter cut off her rambling, and she gently cupped the back of Bella's neck. "You're right, it's not. Victoria is insane, and I'll bring you her head, I promise."

The shield gave her a teasing smile. "You say the most romantic things. I'm swooning." They both laughed quietly at this, in their own world as they so often became.

"They're cute." Alice sighed, though he noticed the longing in her eyes as she watched them. She missed Jasper, that much was obvious.

Emmett wanted to talk to her, to tell her to go visit Jasper, but things were still tense between them. She was angry with him, maybe she had the right to be, but a small part of him held resentment towards her and Jasper.

I know Jasper couldn't help it but...I wish he had been stronger. I wish Alice could be honest with herself. He wished he hadn't become complacent by Carlisle and Edward's smooth-talking ways. If I had come back sooner, maybe I could have protected her from Laurent.

Emmett was done playing the fool. He was done trying to keep the family together and trying to keep them all happy. It's clearly impossible. It was as though Edward wanted to be upset for the rest of eternity. It was as though Jasper was set on hating himself for the rest of eternity. Esme and Carlisle are unhappy too. I was trying to make everyone feel better, but I didn't stand a chance. It had been exhausting. Frustrating. And he had had enough.

Rosalie noticed his distress and took his hand in hers. He gave her a grateful smile, and she returned it with a small one of her own. He was glad to have her, no one could bring him peace as she could. He had missed her terribly when she was away.

His mate then turned her attention towards Bella. "I wish you'd take the Victoria threat more seriously."

Kate snorted. "You want her frantic and worried over that cowardly woman?"

"The cowardly woman who's possibly creating a newborn army?" Rosalie shot back. "Excuse me for wanting her to be cautious."

Bella intervened before their argument could intensify. "I promise I take this seriously, Rose. I just...you're all here with me and I'm becoming a better fighter. I just have a lot of faith in us."

Emmett nodded with a grin. "We won't let them get to you."

Rosalie shot a glare in his direction. "We don't exactly know what we're up against. We should be alert-"

"We are alert," Kate argued. "No one can protect her better than I can. And Bella's right, she's learning fast. We don't need to panic."

"No, but we need to prepare. I thought warriors understood that."

Kate narrowed her eyes. "Like you of all people would understand what it means to be a warrior."

"Stop it, both of you." Bella snapped, her annoyance mirroring Alice's. "Fighting each other won't solve anything."

The blondes glared at each other but they listened to Bella, and the argument died, much to Emmett's relief.

Kate was one of his closest friends. Despite her finding him endearing, she had put her walls up again, and was trying her damndest to ignore the Cullens. It hurt, but he understood.

His family had forsaken Bella. And while Bella didn't seem particularly mad about the situation, Kate and the Denali's had every reason to be. Emmett was mad about it too, and he had been duped into listening to Edward's stupid rule.

Bella's excited shout made him startle. "Rina!" Emmett watched as the Denali's appeared from the treeline. "It is I! Your angel!" Kate and Tanya erupted into a fit of laughter while Irina groaned and buried her face in her hands.

"You're being a bad newborn." Irina muttered, "You shouldn't stress your maker out like this." Bella bounded forward, pulling her maker into a hug and laughing all the while.

"I'm sorry! You're so cute as a newborn!" Bella cooed, removing Irina's hands from her face and beaming at her.

Tanya smirked. "She was, wasn't she? Especially when she gave you that little kiss-"

"Tanya!" Irina growled, looking ready to pounce on her eldest sister, but Bella tightened her hug ever so slightly.

Kate rolled her eyes. "I didn't find it so humorous. It was disgusting…" her brow furrowed before she perked up. "No! It was egregious!" She sounds so smart. Maybe I should get a thesaurus too.

Eleazar looked excited. "A wonderful word! Might I suggest, abhorrent?"

"Ooh, I like that!"

Rosalie looked at the sisters in disbelief. "Have...all of you kissed Bella?" The three blondes looked at each other and Emmett couldn't help but whoop loudly.

"That's my girl!" Bella moved away from Irina, looking extremely sheepish as she slipped behind Alice and Rosalie.

Alice gave her a wide smile. "Human you would be over the moon."

The time traveler shrunk in on herself. "Human me would have melted into a puddle." She muttered before shaking her head. "I would like to say that I never initiated a kiss unless it was with Kate." She said quickly. "And even then, she kissed me first."

Emmett grinned, slinging an arm around her shoulders, and trying to pretend the tension in her body didn't bother him. "Our Bella is a lady killer! And not in the literal sense, like Tanya."

The leader of the Denali's narrowed her eyes. "You know-"

Irina laughed. "That was a good one."

Tanya hissed at her. "At least I didn't kiss Bella when I knew she had a mate! I thought she was fair game."

Her younger sister scowled at her. "I had just turned! I forgot!"

Alice glanced at Rosalie. "Do you enjoy causing chaos?"

She shrugged and leaned her head on Emmett's shoulder. "I was just surprised, is all. I didn't think Bella had it in her."

The vampire in question made a face. "I didn't have it in me. That's why they all kissed me first."

Kate huffed and crossed her arms over her chest. "Well, I'm sorry I wasn't a coward."

"A coward? You were human. I didn't want to hurt you!" Bella sounded so exasperated that Emmett couldn't help but laugh.

The warrior rolled her eyes, but a smile tugged on her lips. "Coward."

Carmen gave Kate a pointed look. "This coming from the vampire that took forever to pro-"

"Okay! Okay! Fair point!" Kate squeaked, and while Bella looked curious, she also laughed at her mate's quick change in demeanor.

Emmett grinned at Bella, wanting to fluster her. "You know, I'm not surprised they all kissed you. You're a catch. I'm just so proud." Bella chuckled awkwardly while Kate glared at him.

"She's my catch."

Bella nodded sheepishly. "Yep. Now can we please talk about something else-"

He just couldn't help himself. "So, who's the best kisser?"

"Emmett," Irina grumbled, crossing her arms over her chest. "Stop teasing her. Bella, you don't have to answer that."

Kate scoffed, "Yes she does."

Tanya frowned. "I gave her a peck on the lips. That's not enough for a fair assessment. And Irina gave her a peck on the lips before Bella had to protect her from Kate. Clearly, for the purpose of science, we'll all have to kiss Bella again and-OW! I was kidding! You're such a brat!" Tanya hissed, rubbing her arm and stepping away from her smirking sister.

Carmen gave Kate a disapproving look. "You know I don't like it when you do that." She then turned to Tanya. "Stop provoking your sister."

"Tell her to stop being so easily provoked."

"Centuries later and you're still such an asshole."

"Kate and Tanya, please don't start this now." Carmen sighed, and the two grumbled apologies to her.

He felt Bella stiffen, and he turned to see her watching Carmen with wide eyes. She probably reminds her of Sasha. The thought saddened him, and he wanted to comfort her, but not at the risk of embarrassing her and creating a scene.

Emmett tried to get her mind off it and removed his arm from around her shoulders. "So," he gave her a gentle nudge. "You absolute legend. Who's the best kisser?"

Bella looked at him with wide eyes before shrugging. "Kate. Obviously."

"Kiss up," Tanya grumbled and Bella was quick to try to make amends.

"I'm sure you and Irina are wonderful kissers! I just-"

Kate moved forward, latching onto Bella and giving her sisters a dirty look. "Stop being nice and don't try to spare their feelings." She grumbled before raising her voice. "Bella would rather die than have either of you kiss her again. You gave her traumatic experiences that will haunt her for the rest of her days." Bella blinked while Irina and Tanya scowled at Kate. "Now, let's go take care of our son. He's missed you!"

Kate grabbed Bella's hand. "Uh, right." Bella was dragged into the house. "Ghost!"

Emmett tried not to be too put out that he and Bella barely got to talk. He thought about going inside and inviting Bella to go hunting with him. But she just got back. She clearly wants to be with Kate.

"Give her time," Rosalie murmured, watching as the other vampires filed inside, all going about their day. "She'll warm up to you."

"Did it take her time to warm up to you and Alice?"

His mate hesitated. She looked away from him when she spoke. "She heard my voice the most consistently. She was used to me, so we fell into a routine pretty easily. Alice found out about her time traveling powers before anyone else, so they grew really close." She slipped her hand into his and tugged him towards the forest.

Emmett walked alongside her with a frown. "So, she warmed up to both of you guys pretty fast. But she has a problem with me?"

Rosalie sighed. "She doesn't have many of her memories. She remembers wrecking Edward's room with Paul. She remembers Jasper attacking her. And she remembers...being attacked in Port Angelas." Her grip on his hand tightened and Emmett cautioned a small smile.

"That's not all bad, right? That brought you two closer when she told you."

"I usually admire your optimism, but for now I'd rather not hear it." She muttered. "She was nearly raped. I don't care if that memory made her like me more...I wish she hadn't experienced it at all." Emmett felt his throat tighten and he nodded stiffly.

"I'm sorry."

"Don't be. I understand that you were only trying to make me feel better." Rosalie gave him a small smile, but it didn't reach her eyes. "After that night in Port Angelas, Bella really struggled with claustrophobia-"

"And crowds." Emmett finished. "But she could handle it when we were with her."

"Yes." Rosalie's eyebrows furrowed. "She bonded easily with Paul because of their shared memory. But with Jake, she's not quite there. Eleazar came and got to know her. He taught her how to play the guitar and they bonded because he took things slowly. Despite knowing her as Bela, she doesn't currently know him, so he eased back into it."

Emmett's shoulders sagged. "You too?"

"Do what you believe will endear her to you." Rosalie said, "But be mindful when you touch her."

His eyes widened and shame coiled in his stomach. "You think that...I make her uncomfortable?" I thought she was just being awkward. He felt like such an insensitive idiot for not being more mindful of how she felt.

"I think men make her uncomfortable."

"Men in general?" But it makes sense. I hadn't even thought of that.

"Half of the memories she's regained are of being attacked by men, and she's aware of Laurent torturing and nearly killing her." Rosalie sucked in a breath. "I think she's subconsciously very cautious of men. I don't know if she even realizes she is." Rosalie gave his hand a gentle squeeze. "When she travels back into the past she's surrounded by only women. For a while, in the present, she was only around women. She's a survivor. She's adjusting, and we all need to respect that."

Venom burned his eyes and he released Rosalie's hand. I've seen Rose so torn up about her own past, how could I not see the same signs in Bella?

"Emmett-"

"I should have known better."

Rosalie was quiet for a moment. "It's not always easy to see when you haven't...experienced it." That was agony to hear.

He squeezed his eyes shut, trying and failing to collect himself. "I was careless. But now I know better." His voice cracked and when his mate hugged him he held her gently. "I'm so sorry."

"You know now. That's what's important." Rosalie soothed, stroking his hair as he buried his face in the crook of her neck. "Invite her to do things with you. Talk to her. Just let her initiate any physical contact." She kissed his temple. "Bella would hear your voice too. You made her smile."

He pulled away, unable to beat back the guilt that gnawed at him but feeling somewhat better. "Really?"

"Really. She told me."

Emmett smiled. "That's...nice." The new information made him feel hopeful. "I'll be super engaged with her, with my words only." He put his hands behind his back. "I'll take good care of her, just like you do. I promise."

Rosalie smiled gently at him. "I know you will."

---

Leah frowned as she pulled the post-it note off of her windshield.

'Leuh, I'm discovering all the different ways I can spell your name.

-Love, Belluh'

The shifter snorted, smiling slightly and pulling out her phone.

Bella answered on the first ring. "Leah, I was just thinking about you. I need your opinion, blue or gold?"

"You spelled my name L.e.u.h before L.e.a?"

She heard a disgruntled huff. "I was getting there. I had to get the most ridiculous spellings out of the way first."

"And you drove all the way over here to put this post-it note on my windshield?"

"Of course not. Jake was just over and he put it on for me. And you didn't answer my question."

Leah rolled her eyes, sliding into the driver seat and starting her car. "Jake would be in on it. This is really stupid, by the way." She paused for a moment before saying, "I like both gold and blue."

"Got it. Now, stop pretending I'm not charming and hurry up. We have things to burn!"

The shifter snorted. "If you're charming then I'm a pretty princess."

"Yes, a pretty princess made of oatmeal."

"Would you just shut the fuck up? God, what is wrong with you?" It was meant to be a harmless joke, but the second it slipped out she instantly regretted it. "Fuck, I'm sorry, I didn't mean-"

A soft laugh came through the speaker. "You're fine, I already know I'm crazy, just hurry up! My dad isn't home so I've been talking to the voices for the past thirty minutes." She would be more concerned if Bella hadn't assured her that they were harmless.

Leah was already going fifteen over the speed limit, but she wasn't about to tell Bella that. The last thing she needed was for the girl to nag her about being safe.

"What'd you guys talk about?" Who was she to judge? She talked out loud to her deceased father as though he could hear her. It was comforting.

"They're kind of rude, actually. They don't even listen to what I have to say." She joked. "One of them called me...maličký? I tried looking it up but I don't know how to spell it."

"I bet it's Russian for dumbass."

"Actually, I think it's Russian for 'get better friends,' or something of that nature."

"You would be hopeless without me, so don't start."

"I mean, yeah, but without me, you'd be a sobbing wreck."

"Like hell!" Leah retorted, "I'd just find another human friend."

"Fine! I'll just get another shifter friend. Oh, wait, I already have Paul and Jake!"

The shifter couldn't help but laugh. "Those idiots? What do they have that I don't?"

Bella sniffed. "Love for me, apparently."

She rolled her eyes. "Please. I love you more than the two of them combined."

A soft gasp escaped her friend. "You do?" At first, she thought Bella was going to start teasing her but instead she said, "I really would be hopeless without you, you know."

Leah smiled, and a tenderness found its way into her voice. "Yeah, I guess I need you too, or whatever." She pulled into her driveway. "I'm here-" the brunette hung up and the shifter growled, "Asshole." Bella came sprinting out of the door moments later, grinning widely before she tripped and nearly face planted.

However, fate was kind, and she managed to catch herself with her hands. Leah laughed, ignoring her friend's pout as she got out of the car.

"You're such an ass, I nearly died."

She embraced Bella before pulling away and ruffling the shorter girl's hair. "A daily occurrence when you have two left feet." She then grabbed her hands and examined them. "I'm surprised your palms aren't more fucked up."

Bella sighed. "Yeah, because I usually don't catch myself. My knees make it look like I play volleyball."

"Or give a lot of head-"

"Do you and Paul ever get tired of sex jokes?" She complained though the shifter could hear a faint chuckle escape her. Bella interlaced their fingers and led them into the house.

Leah smiled. "I'll stop doing it when you stop laughing."

Her friend made a face. "I'm not laughing."

"You know, denial's never looked good on you." It was meant to be lighthearted, but Bella turned and gave her a sad smile.

"No, it hasn't." Leah gave her hand a gentle squeeze, one Bella returned before leading her up to her room.

"Swan," her friend looked up at her, releasing her hand to scoop up some drawings and a few other items. "Seriously, fuck her. She was an asshole." Bella looked away from her, shrugging and holding the items to her chest, making Leah sigh. "You curse Edward all the time. What makes her any different?"

A shaky breath escaped her. "Edward...he said terrible things to me. I loved him and he left. Rose...she's different. She was my friend and-"

"You loved her and she left. I fail to see the difference." She grumbled. "She treated you like shit."

"Sometimes." She grew defensive. "But she got better, softer...you don't know her, Leah. What she's gone through." Her voice quieted, and a flicker of distress flashed through her eyes. "I avoided her, I didn't get to make things right, and now she's gone."

The wolf felt somewhat annoyed but decided not to pry any further. "On the upside, you get to spend more time with me now. And I'm way cooler than those two."

Bella laughed. "Yes, you're the coolest."

"Damn straight, unlike you."

The girl rolled her eyes. "This coming from the girl that would check out Alice any chance she got."

"You little shit!" Bella squealed and darted out of the room. "I was not checking her out!" Leah ran after her, letting Bella make it down the steps before she easily closed the distance.

"Then why were you always staring at her ass-" she shrieked when Leah scooped her into her arms, and then she erupted into a fit of giggles as Leah tried and failed to stay angry.

"I would never stare at a leech's ass." She snapped playfully, carrying her friend to the backyard and towards the firepit. "If anything I was observing how truly wretched it looked."

Bella laid her head on her chest, eyes filled with mirth and a laugh in her throat. "And how long did it take for you to realize how truly wretched her ass looked?" She quipped, "When I notice something repulsive, I don't tend to stare at it for five minutes."

Leah was torn between dropping her on her ass and laughing. "It was like a nasty car crash, you know? One of those things where you just can't look away."

"A truly harrowing sight, I'm sure."

"It was, I nearly puked." She liked the sound of Bella's laugh, she liked that she was able to make her friend happy.

The shifter set her down next to the firepit, pulling her lighter from her pocket and getting to work while Bella sifted through her things. Leah kept her back to her, letting her friend have a moment and not wanting to make her nervous.

When the fire was lit she stepped away, slowly looking at Bella who had frustrated tears in her eyes as she glared at her belongings.

Leah stepped forward, slipping an arm around her waist and pulling her close. "Playing the jaded ex isn't so bad. You get tattoos and emotionally charged haircuts that you end up regretting later on."

Teary eyes blinked up at her. "No, your hair looks really good like this." Her voice cracked and tears rolled down her cheeks. "I love your hair, and you should love it too."

The shifter gently cupped her cheeks and wiped her tears away with her thumb. "I was only trying to make you laugh, Bella." She murmured. "I know my hair makes me look sexy as hell." This got a soft laugh to escape her, and Leah embraced her tightly. "If they ever come back here I'll tear them apart."

Bella pulled away with a sniffle, wiping her puffy eyes with the back of her sleeve and giving her a small smile. "You better let me get a few punches in."

"Of course. We'll work on your right hook." She then gestured at the things in her hands. "Fuck the Cullens. All of them. And fuck vampires."

The brunette nodded, clenching her jaw and holding out her items. "Fuck vampires." She echoed, tossing them all into the flames. All except one. The fire roared, stretching out and consuming her belongings, and Bella coughed as the smoke blew in her direction.

She took a couple of steps back, clutching a bracelet tightly in her hand, and averted her eyes from Leah's disappointed gaze. "I...Esme bought it for me." It was pretty yet simple, a gold band with pretty flowers engraved on it.

Leah didn't berate her. How could she?

"Hey, I get it." She jammed her hands into her pockets, staring at the flames as she spoke. "When, uh, when my dad passed, I searched for everything he gave me and put it in a box." She cleared her throat, forcing back her tears and looking at her friend. "I know it's not exactly the same...and maybe I don't quite understand the parental abandonment you feel. But I...I know how much that stuff means."

Bella's bottom lip quivered and she lurched forward, wrapping her arms around Leah and holding her tight. "I'm sorry."

"Why are you sorry?" Leah pulled away, bracing Bella's shoulders and looking at her seriously. "Nothing you said or did was wrong. You never had a mother, and when you found one in Esme…" she shook her head. "You have every reason to be upset and confused and angry and hurt, alright?" Bella bit her lip, looking unsure. "Just don't let it consume you."

She nodded slowly. "I feel better...you've really helped me."

"You were there for me and my family. You don't know how much that meant to us." Leah smiled gently for her. "I'll always be there for you."

Bella looked at the flames for a moment before staring down at her bracelet. "Esme...she said the same… so did Alice. But I believe you when you say it." She smiled wryly. "I shouldn't depend on you so much...I shouldn't put so much pressure on you."

Leah sighed, dragging her friend into another hug. "I depend on you just as much...it's not healthy but I do." Bella rested her head on her shoulder and hugged her back gently. "But it's different with us, you know? We take care of each other."

"Yeah," she murmured, "I wish I was a shifter."

This made the wolf chuckle. "No longer fascinated with vampires?"

Bella pulled away and shrugged. "Disillusioned, I guess." She told her, "I was so sure I wanted to be one," her brow furrowed. "But to be one alone...well...and what would we do?" She looked up at her with wide eyes. "I don't want you to hate me." Her hands toyed with the hem of her shirt nervously, and Leah looked away from her.

"I won't lie to you," she muttered, "If you became one of them, it would be really difficult for me to deal with." Leah looked at her. "But I could never hate you."

She sighed in relief before shaking her head. "Well, we don't have to worry about that." Brown eyes stared into the flames. "I think I've had enough of all that...the vampires, I mean. Being a boring old human is fine by me."

This surprised her. "A change in heart?" She bit her lip before broaching the subject. "What if they came back and offered to turn you?"

Her friend frowned, mulling it over before shaking her head. "I don't want that anymore. I don't want them." There was a bite in her voice, a spitefulness that Leah was glad to hear. "I want...I want this. What we have. What I have with the pack."

The wolf smiled. "Good. I'm glad." Bella was too good to be a leech. She was too kind and loving to become a blood-sucking monster.

They stayed by the firepit for a moment longer before going inside. Leah couldn't stay long due to the pack's unnecessary monthly meeting with the elders. The girls watched a stupid tv-show, talking over it as they normally did, and when the shifter had to leave Bella walked her to her car.

"Can I expect more stupid notes from you?"

Her friend scowled. "You told me you liked my notes."

"I do. But I also know they're stupid."

She rolled her eyes. "Then you're stupid for liking them."

Her eyebrows raised. "Careful, Swan. You might hurt my feelings." She got into her car, laughing when Bella stuck her tongue out at her and flipped her off. Leah rolled down her window. "Hey, leave your door unlocked. I'm coming over after this stupid meeting."

Bella nodded. "Alright. You might beat me home. Jess, Mike, and Angela are dragging me to Port Angeles." She told her, "Mike is freaking out about his date with Tyler and, for some reason, they think I'll provide great fashion advice." She sighed.

Leah's grip on her steering wheel tightened involuntarily. "Port Angeles?" She forced herself to relax. "Just...just be careful, please? If there's one thing I'll give that blonde leech...it's that I might owe her one for watching out for you."

Her friend gave her a terse smile. "Yeah...well, I'm smarter now. No running off by myself. And no alleyways."

"Good." She forced herself to give Bella a reassuring smile, but, as always, the brunette saw right through her.

"Don't worry about me. We're just going to the mall and then we're coming right back." Bella assured her. "There and back. No detours."

"Okay. I'll see you tonight."

She didn't.

Leah paced around Bella's empty room, phone in hand, and heart beating rapidly in her chest as she texted their friends and attempted to call Bella's phone for the seventh time.

"Come on, Swan. Where the fuck are you." She grumbled, waiting for their friends to text them back. Charlie was working at the station, and the pack was still meeting with the elders.

Leah was permitted to leave early since she'd be with Bella, and therefore protecting her from the redheaded leech. "But I can't fucking protect you if I don't know where you're at." She growled.

Her phone rang and she answered it quickly. "Jess. Have you seen her? Where is she?" She didn't mean to sound so demanding, but her anxiety seeped through and she couldn't hide it.

Jessica sounded just as panicked in her response. "We walked her to her car. We saw her drive off. Is she not home? I tried calling her but she didn't pick up."

"Shit!" Leah snarled, hanging up abruptly and storming out of the house. "Shit, shit!" She tried calling Sam. Nothing. Jake. Nothing. Paul. Nothing. Embry, Jared, Quil, Seth. Nothing. They were still with the elders, and out of respect, they would stay off their phones. But she had to try.

"Shit." She got into her car. "Okay, it's okay. Maybe she...maybe she's driving slow and...she's being safe by not answering her phone." She began to drive to Port Angeles. "Yeah. Yeah! She's just a dumbass that cares more about safety than about her friend's having fucking heart attacks.

Thirty minutes had passed and there was no sign of Bella or her car. Her phone rang and she answered it quickly.

"Leah, what's wrong?" Sam's deep voice was one of the last things she wanted to hear, but at the same time, she was relieved that the pack could finally be of use to her.

"It's Bella, she hasn't come back from Port Angeles. She's an hour late, Sam, and she's not with her friends. I need you to get everyone out there searching for her. Now."

"Leah-"

"Don't fucking argue with me! Do you hear me? Don't you fucking argue! She's in danger and I-"

"Leah!" She snarled but quieted to let him speak. "Are you alright?"

"I'd be a lot better if you weren't wasting my fucking time, Sam! Goddammit! She should have been home an hour ago! Why are you asking me stupid fucking questions!"

As always, Sam was patient with her. "I'm asking because I care about you." She snorted, but he ignored it. "I'll send the pack. Where are you?"

"Almost out of town."

"Okay. I'll send the boys." She heard Brady and Collin in the background. "No, you two are staying here. Seth will watch you both. You boys are too young and it's too dangerous." Sam chastised before saying, "I'll stay on the line with you."

"I don't need you to comfort me, Uley. Jesus Christ." She sneered. "I'll call you if I find anything." Leah hung up and turned the radio on to calm her nerves.

"See the pyramids along the Nile."

A woman crooned, singing softly, and making Leah's eyes widen. She hadn't heard this song in a while. Her mother used to sing it to her and Seth before tucking them in at night.

She had played it for Bella once, silly her, on the verge of a breakdown just by hearing it. But then her stupid friend had jumped to her feet and pulled her to hers, dancing clumsily and dramatically and making Leah laugh and cry at the same time.

"Watch the sunrise on a tropic isle. Just remember darling, all the while. You belong to me."

It was one of the cheesy love songs her parents danced to in the kitchen; and the nostalgia made her eyes burn. But she didn't turn it off. The nostalgia took her to better days, easier ones.

"See the marketplace in old Algiers. Send me photographs and souvenirs."

Her grip on the steering wheel tightened. Unbidden thoughts of her childhood came to the surface, both saddening her and calming her. She turned the music up, not wanting to continue to lose her mind over Bella. She needed to remain calm if she were going to be of any use to her missing friend.

"Just remember when a dream appears. You belong to me."

Then she saw it. Bella's rusted truck crashed on the side of the road.

"Shit." She pulled to the side of the road, hands trembling as she put her car in park and got out , not bothering to take the keys out of the ignition. The front of her car was completely totaled, and the metal was bent into the shape of what looked to be a man.

'Hitting a human doesn't do that to your car.'

"Bella!" The front door was open, and in the passenger seat sat her phone. There was blood on the steering wheel and on the driver's seat. "Fuck!" Quivering hands pulled out her own phone and she quickly called Sam.

"I'll be so alone without you."

Dread was threatening to drown her as she shakily told Sam where she was. Leah couldn't process anything, nothing felt real. Her body was numb, and were Bella not in immediate danger she would have broken down then and there.

"Maybe you'll be lonesome too."

It was the same feeling she had when Sam had told her about her father's passing. The initial shock. The dread. The feeling of her entire world falling apart.

The shifter grabbed her friend's phone and put it in her car. 'I can't fall apart. She's still out there.'

"You're okay, Bella." She murmured. "I'm just gonna hold onto this for you, alright? I'll get it back to you when I find your clumsy ass." Frustrated tears pricked her eyes. "I should have been faster. God. Your blood's already drying...fuck. Don't worry, I'll be there soon."

"And blue."

She shifted into her wolf, following the rancid smell of the vampire. She could hear her other packmates but she paid them no mind. She had to find Bella, she had to stay calm and focus.

Her mind drifted back to the song.

"Fly the ocean in a silver plane."

A loud howl indicated Paul found something. There was sorrow in his song, one she refused to take heed of if she wanted to keep her sanity intact.

"See the jungle when it's wet with rain."

The sickly smell of burning vampire made her nose wrinkle. It gave her hope. But it all came crashing down when she saw Paul's wolf at the edge of the border. His head was bowed, his ears flattened to his skull, and he sat back on his haunches.

The other wolves arrived around the same time she did, none of them crossing onto the Cullen's territory. That's when she smelled blood.

"Just remember till you're home again."

Her form shuttered and she was human again. Tears cascaded down her cheeks at the sight of Bella's torn clothes. Her blood was everywhere. It looked like a scene from a horror movie, but her body was nowhere to be found.

"You belong to me."

"Oh god." Leah ran forward, only to be grabbed by Sam. She hadn't even realized he shifted back.

"Leah-"

"Get your fucking hands off me!" She screamed. Her vision was blurry, she could hardly see a thing. All she knew was that she needed to be there. She needed to be at the spot that her friend had once been. "Bella! Oh god! Oh god!" Sam wouldn't relent. "Get off me you son of a bitch! Get off!"

"Leah! You can't be near that area!" Sam bellowed, his voice cracking, "If any cops come investigating we can't have your fingerprints-"

"I don't care!" She wailed, "I don't care!" She swung blindly at him. "Get off me!" A punch connected, hitting Sam's jaw and making him stagger backward. She took the opportunity to dart past him, stumbling towards the remnants of Bella Swan.

Footsteps came up from behind her, "Bella!" It was Paul. Together they reached where she had last been. Their packmates soon followed, some as wolves and some as men.

Leah fell to her knees next to a piece of her friend's shirt. Her crying was silent. She was still in shock.

"I'll be so alone without you."

"Bella." She whimpered. This couldn't be happening. This was clearly some sick nightmare.

Meanwhile, Paul was sobbing brokenly. He paced around the blood-covered area, cursing and screaming and punching at whatever tree was near him at the time.

"Fuck! Fucking leeches! I'll kill them! I'll kill them all!" He roared, "Goddamn them! I'll rip them apart with my bare hands!" He slammed his fist into another tree.

Jake remained in his wolf form, laying on his belly and whining loudly as he stared at the blood-soaked leaves. Jared also stayed as his wolf, pressing his side against Jake's, and resting his massive head on his paws as his ears pressed against his skull.

Quil stood a ways back with Sam. Both remaining silent, both staring at the blood with glassy eyes. At some point, Embry had come to her side, but she didn't even register it.

"Maybe you'll be lonesome too."

"She died alone." Leah whispered, "She died alone...just like…" she snarled, reaching out and snagging the fabric from the forest floor. "She was attacked and scared and alone." It looked as though she had been tortured, and Leah felt her stomach churn at the very thought.

"And blue."

"Leah."

"I should have looked for her sooner. I should have...oh my god." She breathed, "She's dead. She's dead. Bella's...no...she can't be." A choked sob escaped her. "But she is, isn't she?" She clutched the fabric in her fist and held it over her heart. "I was too late."

"You can't blame yourself." Embry hugged her tightly, tears rolling down his cheeks as he spoke. "Her...her body isn't here. Maybe she's still alive." His optimism was overshadowed by the quiver in his voice and his sniffles.

Leah stared numbly ahead. "Look at all this blood. How did she survive this?"

"Maybe...maybe gold eyed vampires saved her." He suggested, clearing his throat and rubbing his eyes. "What else could have killed that leech?" He gestured in the direction of the smell of the burning leech. "And I smelled different vampires, two of them. Maybe they took her and changed her."

Leah's face twisted into a sneer. "As if that's any better."

Paul paused, red-rimmed eyes flickered to look at her in disbelief. "That is better. That means she's still-"

"Dead!" Leah roared. "She won't be the same! She'd be a fucking monster!"

Paul's eyes flashed with hatred. "Better for her to be a leech than to never see her again!" He looked away from her, overcome with sadness, and he buried his face in his hands. "You don't get it. She was all I had."

A tremor ran down her spine. "I don't get it? Why, because I have a brother? Because I didn't have a fucked up childhood in the loony bin?"

"Leah!" Sam snapped, but she ignored him.

"You all fucking left her, but I was there! Fuck you, Paul! You don't get to say that shit to me! I loved her too!" Bella was her best friend. Her sister. And now she was dead.

'She died all alone. Just like dad.'

Paul didn't retaliate. Instead, he fell to his knees and stared brokenly at what little remained of Bella. "She was all I had." He repeated. "I pray to God that she's a vampire." He looked at Leah. "She'll still be Bella. Leech or not."

"She'll still be dead." Leah growled, "At least this way she's at peace." But she didn't mean that. Not really. Because a selfish part of her hoped that Paul was right. Yet another part of her couldn't stand the thought of Bella with red eyes and a craving for blood.

She didn't know if she could handle Bella being the very creature that killed her father. The very creature that attacked Bella.

'But I'll miss her. God. I'll miss her so much.' Maybe she could afford to be selfish, if only for a little bit.

'Selfish? No. Pathetic. You'd have her be a monster so you can hear her voice one more time? Would you want the same for your dad?'

Leah shook her head. "No. She didn't want that. She didn't want to be turned." Bella shouldn't be a vampire. She would be bloodthirsty and angry and cold. Bella hated the cold.

"Just remember till you're home again."

Paul stared at her with glassy eyes. "You may have fooled yourself, Clearwater. But you can't fool me."

"You belong to me-" her fist went through the radio, making it splutter before dying.

"How many times do I have to tell you not to play that fucking song, Seth? Shit!" Leah snapped, massaging her throbbing knuckles for a moment before swiping the radio onto the ground. Her breathing was ragged, her vision unfocused, and her body trembled as she crushed the radio beneath her foot.

Blood. Bella's blood. I failed her.

"Shut up!" She slammed her foot down harder on the already broken radio.

It's everywhere. It's mixed with torn pieces of fabric.

"Leah! Stop!"

Alone. She died alone. I didn't save her. I wasn't there for her. I was useless.

"I said shut up!"

I broke my promise. Bella's a leech. She's dead. She's a monster.

Warm arms embraced her, and she stiffened in surprise. When she realized it was Seth her breathing slowed, and she allowed him to hug her tight.

"I'm so sorry. I wasn't thinking and...I didn't think it would still bother you."

She gritted her teeth. "It does." Leah released a shuttered breath and moved out of his embrace. "You shouldn't play that song. It makes mom sad."

Seth sighed. "Right...sorry."

"I'll buy us a new radio tomorrow." She paused. "I'm sorry I yelled. I know this song has a different meaning to you. I just...I can't listen to it. I can't."

Her brother nodded. "I understand." He reached out and grabbed her hand. "I'm...I'm going with Jake to see Bella in a couple days." Leah thought about warning him of what she had become. She's not even Bella anymore. But the hope in his eyes made her remain silent.

"Be safe."

"She wouldn't hurt me."

"She doesn't even remember you." She grumbled, "Just...be careful, alright? I don't like the idea of you with all those leeches."

Seth rolled his eyes. "If you had bothered to come to the meeting you'd know that Tanya and Irina are very nice. So is Alice. Rosalie is mean but she's not evil or anything."

She snorted. "I remember Tanya." The bloodsucker Bella broke my collarbone for. However, she had no idea who Irina was, nor did she care. Just another stupid leech.

"Shouldn't you find this empowering?" He then grinned. "An all-female coven of kickass vampires?"

A tremor ran down her spine. "How can you stand the sight of them?" She asked. "After everything their kind has done to us...to Bella…"

"Bella's a vampire now." He reminded her. Not that he needed to since she was well aware. "She's one of the good ones." He quieted for a moment, averting his gaze from hers. "Red eyed ones killed dad. A red eyed one turned Bella."

Leah felt her eyes burn. "A leech is a leech, Seth. You didn't see...there was so much blood." She choked out, balling her hands into fists. "And what about Jasper?" She reigned in her sadness and replaced it with anger. "He's a 'good one.' But he still attacked Bella."

Seth frowned. "She told us that was an accident." He squared his shoulders. "I don't see how it's any different than when Sam accidentally hurt Emily."

Leah tensed, jaw tightening and hands clenching into fists. "That's different."

"How?"

"I don't know, Seth! It just is!" She snarled. "Why are you defending them!"

His eyes burned with anger. "Because Bella's one of them now!" This made her jaw clamp shut. And her brother scowled. "You said it yourself, she didn't want this and…" he deflated, suddenly looking older than sixteen as a weary expression took over his facial features. "I just don't get why you're punishing her for something she had no control over."

Leah knew he made several good points, but she was in no mood for critical thinking. She was tired of everyone making her out to be the problem, when, really, the vampires should have left her friend alone in the first place.

A leech murdered their father. Every time she looked at one she was reminded that their kind was the reason that he was no longer here. And now they were the reason Charlie was without a daughter, and why she was without her best friend.

Seth continued, "You shouldn't hate her-"

"I don't hate her." She growled, "I could never hate her. That's...you don't understand."

"Then explain it to me." His voice softened and she felt angry tears prick her eyes. She was the big sister, she was supposed to be comforting him, not the other way around.

Dad died from a vampire attack. Bella died from a vampire attack. I'm a shifter and I couldn't save them. I promised to stay by Bella's side and I broke it.

"I'm going to check on Charlie." She left and her brother watched her go. Both knowing their conversation was far from over.

Visiting Charlie was a dull affair. He was passed out on the couch with a bottle of whisky in his hand and she grimaced at the sight.

"Dammit, Charlie." She sighed, taking the bottle out of his hand and setting it aside. He reeked of booze and sweat. His eyes had dark circles beneath them, and his mustache had grown into a full, scruffy beard. He had been quieter lately. Not as adamant about finding Bella, and she didn't know whether to be worried or relieved.

"I miss her too...but you have to take care of yourself." In his other hand was the mug Bella had gotten him when she was a child, and he clutched it to his chest as Leah adjusted him so he was laying more comfortably.

Leah draped a blanket over him, left a bottle of water on the coffee table, and cleaned up the empty beer cans and bottles that surrounded the police chief. She hadn't visited him yesterday, and now she was really wishing she had.

"You and your daughter are helpless when it comes to self-care." She grumbled. But she had little room to talk.

As she made her way to the door the strong smell of a vampire entered the house. It came from Bella's room and Leah's eyes widened before she rushed upstairs. She opened the door, ready to shift in the confined room in order to protect Charlie, but she stopped when she saw the vampire.

"You…" Bella's dream girl. She had light freckles dotting the bridge of her nose and the same long, straight blonde hair she had seen in Bella's drawings. The only difference was that her eyes were gold instead of blue. Her dream girl is a vampire? Of fucking course she is.

The blonde frowned at her. "Yes. Me." She then looked her over with narrowed eyes. "What are you doing up here? Have you no respect for Bella's privacy?" You little shit.

"Me? I came up here because I could smell your stench from a mile away." She snapped. "Who even are you?" The leech looked too relaxed in Bella's room, and it rubbed her the wrong way. "Have you been in here before?"

"You're so nosey. Go away, puppy. I don't answer to you." She scoffed, moving to Bella's desk and pulling open a drawer.

Leah bristled. "Hey! Stop that!" She went to snatch the manilla folder out of her hands but the leech was too fast. She moved it just out of reach with a shit-eating smirk.

"So touchy. I take it you know my Bella?"

"Your Bella?"

"I didn't realize she had a guard dog." She shrugged, stepping away and waving the folder triumphantly. "I'm afraid you're too late. I've already gone through all her things, including her underwear drawer."

"What the fuck's the matter with you!"

"I've already seen her naked. What's a few pieces of fabric?" She spoke so nonchalantly, and she clearly enjoyed aggravating Leah. Before the shifter could lash out at her, the leech reached into the folder and pulled out a drawing. "Don't worry, I'm her dream girl." She held the picture up next to her own face and grinned. "My sweet demon is such a good artist, but such a poor demon."

Leah blanched, anger forgotten as she looked at the vampire with wide eyes. "Wait...your demon?" Her mind was racing. "Do you...god this is insane." She grumbled before pushing forward. "Maličký...do you know what that word means? Do you ever call her that?"

Her nose wrinkled. "It means, 'little one,' and only my sister calls her that. Bella is my mate." Her brow furrowed. "Where is this coming from?" Was Bella hearing their voices the entire time? How is that possible?

"Who are you?"

"Kate Denali."

"You're...you're Bella's dream girl and you're her mate…" it was a lot to take in.

On one hand, she felt the familiar feeling of giddiness she felt whenever things were going in Bella's favor. She knew her old friend was over the moon about this girl, she had to be. Bella didn't know Kate in her human life, but towards the end of her human life she had talked about her so much it almost felt as though she were real.

But she is real and she's right in front of me and Bella might have been hearing her voice since she was a child.

Her happiness for Bella vanished when she reminded herself just what Bella was and who she was mated to. A cocky leech. And, of course, a blonde one. Kate was stunning in a way that was similar to Rosalie, but different at the same time.

Where Rosalie's expression held a glimmer of haughtiness, Kate's held arrogance. She wasn't brooding like Edward or cold like Rosalie. She seemed playful. Ironically, she seemed lively. She looked like a troublemaker, not like the grumpy assholes Bella had fallen in love with.

Kate seemed pleased. "Ah, so she's told you about me! She's so talented, isn't she? So talented and beautiful." She said dreamily before looking at Leah curiously. "You must be this Leah I hear so much about. She's drawn a couple of pictures of you," she gestured at her desk. "In there. You should take them."

Leah was at a loss for words. "I'm...she talks to you about me?"

The blonde nodded. "You cause her a lot of distress." She said plainly. "Quite frankly, I don't know if I like you. But Bella still likes you, so I suppose I'll refrain from electrocuting you. For now." Electrocuting? She's one of those leeches that has power?

Leah growled under her breath, "Whatever. Just get what you need and get the hell out."

Kate smiled. "I'll take my time. Bella is my mate, and she has no problems with me being here." She then chuckled. "I'm here for more of her art. If you got your head out of your ass, maybe you'd see how fantastic my Bella is."

Her hands balled into fists. "You don't understand anything. You don't even know me!"

The leech shrugged. "I don't have to know you to know that your reasoning is absurd. What has Bella done to you to make you hate her so much? Oh, that's right, nothing. You just hate our species."

"For good reason." Leah snarled. "I see your kind and all I can see is…" the heat in her voice died out, "blood."

To her surprise, Kate didn't make a snippy comment. She didn't mock her or laugh. She just looked at her closely before sighing.

"PTSD. Bella has that too." She said quietly, making Leah look up at her in surprise. "She remembers Jasper attacking her." Her jaw clenched. "And if that bastard comes back here I'll rip off his head."

Leah blinked. "That's something we can agree on."

Kate looked at her. "It is. What do you see?" When Leah remained silent she said, "I had PTSD as a human. My tribe was at war and...I lost good friends. Bella would hold me through the nightmares." Leah's eyes widened.

"Wait. What? That doesn't make any sense." Bella holding her through nightmares? Implying Bella met her as a human?

The blonde gave her a patient smile. "That's her story to tell...if you're willing to listen." She opened her other desk drawer and sifted through more of the papers. "Most of these aren't colored, but...oh." Her voice grew quiet, and gold eyes stared intently at whatever was in the drawer.

Leah figured she had found the pictures of Rosalie. "Her and the blonde Cullen were...close." No need to mention her past love. That would only cause problems.

Kate snorted, sparing her a glance. "I'm well aware of her past affections for Rosalie." It was clearly something she didn't want to talk about. "I found something that might be of interest to you." She pulled two papers out, one paperclipped to the other.

Leah eyed them curiously before accepting them. The first was a note.

Leah, I'm not very good with words. You've helped me overcome so much and I will always love you so much for that. You're one of the best things in my life. I'm not sure how this picture will make you feel, but I thought in time maybe you'd like it. I worked really hard on it, I hope I did him justice.

- Your bestie, Bella

- P.S: You will always be my favorite bowl of oatmeal :P

A surprised laugh escaped Leah before she rolled her eyes in annoyance.

- P.S.S: As a wise woman once said: "I'll stop saying it when you stop laughing."

Leah cleared her throat and blinked back the tears that blurred her vision. The letter, while short and sweet, felt like a punch to the gut. It reminded her just how much she missed her best friend.

When she moved the letter aside her heart clenched painfully in her chest. It was a drawing of her dad.

He was a young man in the picture with long black hair and strong shoulders. His smile was wide and handsome, just as she remembered as a child. He wore a ratty t-shirt and blue jeans. He had a fishing pole propped up on his shoulder, and he was encompassed in a golden ray of light. In the background, there was a lake and a light blue sky.

"Blue and gold." She breathed, holding back tears. This is how I wanted to remember him, and she knew that. Her bottom lip quivered and she bit her lip to keep her sob from escaping.

The warrior gave her a sad smile. "She remembered drawing that, you know. It made her cry, well, cry as much as a vampire could. But she couldn't explain why it did." Kate held up the manila folder in her hand. "I was taking these for myself, but I was also hoping to find out more about my Bella when she was human." Leah couldn't hold back the tears anymore, and she couldn't find it in her to care if the leech saw her crying.

"She...she beat herself up a lot. But she was really something."

"She still is," Kate murmured. "I know she'd be happy to see you." She hesitated before saying, "Thank you." Leah wiped her tears away and looked at her in confusion. "You took good care of her when I couldn't. I may be unsure of you, but I'm certain of one thing." She gave her a nod. "You genuinely cared for her."

Cared. Past tense. It felt like she had been struck. "I..." if I currently cared for her, wouldn't I be at her side, regardless of her species?

"It's alright to be afraid, but if you wish to make amends, don't wait to do so." Kate turned her back to her and made her way to the window. "We will be leaving for Alaska in a month or two. Given our relations with the Cullens, we won't return for quite some time."

Leah's heart seized. "What?"

Kate stopped and turned to her with a frown. "You didn't know?" She sighed. "We wouldn't have been able to stay here anyway. Not with her father investigating her disappearance. Bella has to get used to the human world, and she can't do so here."

"She can't just leave!" Leah snarled, feeling her body heat up and her limbs begin to tremble. What does it matter? You avoid her anyway. But it was different, it was wrong for Bella to leave, and she couldn't quite place why. Because you'll miss her, stop acting dense.

"She can and she will. She's my mate, she belongs to my coven, and she has already agreed to come home with us."

"This is her home! Here! With Charlie and Paul and Jake and..." me.

This made the vampire laugh. There was heat in her voice, an intense anger that made the shifter bristle. "This place? What is this town to her but a place of forgotten memories and humans she can never see again?" She faced her with dark eyes. "Shifters who call her a monster, and a leech." Leah froze, filled with dread as Kate smiled tersely at her. "I tried so hard to be civil with you, Leah. I almost like you...I would like you, were you not so spiteful towards my mate."

"I...I didn't mean-"

"Yes, you did. You meant every word you said to her." Kate turned her back on her. "Sort your feelings out, and either come see her or don't. It makes no difference to me." She paused. "But that is the last time you will ever speak to her like that." She opened the window. "That's not a suggestion, nor is it a request. Don't take your hatred of vampires out on Bella. She didn't ask for this." Kate disappeared, leaving a silent Leah alone in Bella's room.

After what felt like an eternity, Leah picked the picture up off the floor. She read the letter once, twice, three times. The tears continued to fall as she sat on her old friend's bed and tried to sift through her muddled thoughts.

This is good. Now you can let her go. She's a vampire now. Leah looked at the drawing again, and a soft sob escaped her. But I'm so alone without her.

---

Bella didn't dislike Emmett. Really. She didn't. His voice had been and currently was a comfort to her. He made her laugh and she knew that he and Swan had been close. No, she didn't dislike Emmett.

She only wished that he stopped trying to force their friendship to resurface. It would take time, she had told him, the hurt was still there despite the memories being gone.

But that only seemed to encourage him.

"Bellsy!" He boomed, almost making her groan in exasperation as he plopped down onto the couch next to her and Kate. "You, me, bear hunting. What do you think?"

Bella shrugged, borrowing into Kate's side and ignoring her mate's amused smirk. "Maybe next time." She muttered, relaxing only when Kate slipped an arm around her shoulders.

The large vampire deflated slightly before nodding, "I get it. But I'm holding you to our bear hunting date!" He told her, smiling broadly before looking in the direction of his old room. "Babe! Let's go hunting!"

Rosalie murmured her agreement. She appeared in the living room, giving Bella a knowing look. "Are you sure you don't want to come with us?" She asked, "We won't be gone long." Her friend had been much more...kind lately. It was odd. Bella figured it was because Emmett had come back.

The time traveler hesitated at the blonde's invitation and Kate sneered up at her. "She said no. Now go away."

Bella frowned at her mate. She had been hostile towards Rosalie lately. And while she was giving Alice the cold shoulder, and even Emmett despite him making it difficult to do so, she was especially angry with Rosalie.

Her friend, however, smiled blithely at Kate. "Is something the matter?" She feigned innocence and her eyes sparkled with a knowing smugness.

Kate tightened her grip on Bella. "Your presence disgusts me. As does the rest of your family."

Before Bella could reprimand her, Rosalie shrugged, "I told you that I voted against leaving." She then turned to Bella, "If you change your mind, you know where to find us." Rosalie leaned down, pressing a kiss to her forehead and making Kate growl. Bella blinked in surprise.

Emmett was fighting back a smile as he took his mate's hand. "See you two later." They left, and Kate and Bella were alone.

The time traveler turned to her mate. "Kate." She was silent, angry, and Bella frowned. "Hey, what's wrong?"

Kate ignored her, snatching her up by her waist and dragging her into her lap. "Nothing that you can't fix." She smiled deviously at her and Bella laughed as soft kisses were pressed against her throat.

"No, really. What's bothering you?" She cupped Kate's cheeks in her hands, pulling her face away so she could look into her eyes.

Kate groaned, leaning her head on the couch and closing her eyes. "What's bothering me is that the woman that I adulate won't give me the kisses I require."

Bella rolled her eyes, "Adulate sounds like ovulate."

"I'm sure it does to someone who's so uneducated." She quipped, smiling when the brunette snorted and tried to get out of her lap. "Don't run from me!" Kate laughed and tightened her grip on her hips. "I'm a very good teacher." She winked, and Bella fought back a smile as she gripped her shoulders.

"You almost distracted me." Kate's good mood soured and Bella sighed. "What's your problem with Rosalie?"

Kate looked away from her, "You know why I don't like her."

"Many hate me out of jealousy." Rosalie chuckled. "I'm surprised to learn that that's not the case for you."

"Why would I be jealous of you?" Bella Swan asked. "Erm, not that...ugh. You know what I mean. You're uh, very beautiful, Rose."

A tinkling laugh echoed in her mind. "I'm well aware, and I'm glad you are too. That's why I keep you around."

"To boost your already inflated ego?"

She could hear the smile in her voice. "Exactly...you know, you're beautiful too. You might rival me if you become a vampire."

This made Bella Swan laugh in disbelief. "Rose, no one can rival you. You're…" she cleared her throat awkwardly, "You're you."

"I've missed those awkward compliments of yours. I wonder if Edward knows how much of a flirt you are." Rosalie hummed, "You're giving Emmett a run for his money."

Her panicked voice answered. "I wasn't flirting I was being-"

"Endearing. Endearing in your own awkward but sweet kind of way. Thank you for the compliment, but don't sell yourself short. You're quite lovely."

"Bella." She jumped when Kate snapped her fingers by her ear.

"Oh. Sorry." Swan was easily flustered, but she seemed especially affected by Rosalie. But that made sense, she mused, because Swan was a closeted bisexual and Rosalie was beautiful. I can't imagine how she'd react if she had met Kate as a human.

Gold eyes searched hers worriedly for a moment before Kate asked, "Who was it?"

Bella hesitated, not wanting to draw her ire but not wanting to lie to her either. "Rose. She…" she shook her head, "You're jealous of her, why?"

"Jealous?" Kate growled, lightly pushing her off her lap and standing to her feet. "I'm not jealous, especially not of her." Her eyes darkened. "She left you. That's reason enough for me to dislike her."

Bella frowned as she watched her pace. "But she came back-"

"Because she thought you were dead." Kate snapped, "She came back for a corpse, Bella, not for you." The newborn took a step backward, and venom burned her eyes as the familiar ache roared to life in her chest.

"Oh." That thought had never occurred to her. If Alice didn't have that vision, would they have come back at all? Her mind was racing, and a voice intruded her mind.

"Mom?" The girl sounded young. She sounded like her. "Are you...are we going home?"

There was an exasperated sigh. "I'm not here for you, Bella. I'm here to drop off a check."

Kate realized her mistake and her eyes widened. "No, I didn't mean it like that-"

"You said I wouldn't be here long! You said I could come home in three months!"

Her mother sighed again. "If you were better I would take you home. But normal people don't hear voices. That's why you're here. To get better."

"But I'm not sick and the voices aren't bad. They're nice."

"Bella." Gentle hands gripped her cheeks. "I shouldn't have said what I did. It was stupid. I'm just mad at the Cullens and I never meant to-"

"You're delusional, baby, that's why I can't take you home. What would people think if they heard you talking to that Kathrine girl?"

"That's not her name!" The younger Bella sounded outraged. Offended, even.

"She's not real! It doesn't matter!" Her mother snapped back. "And the way you talk about her...the way you defend her makes me wonder just how sick you really are." Her voice lowered as though she didn't want to be overheard. "I won't be raising any queers in my house. Do you understand?"

Bella flinched away from Kate.

"I...mom I'm not...I don't like girls." The younger Swan stammered, sounding on the verge of tears.

"I'm sorry," her mother sighed, "But you have to understand why I worry. You're confused by these voices. You could be confused about...other things. Disgusting things."

She squeezed her eyes shut and did all she could to push her mother from her mind. Is that why you attached yourself so readily to Esme? She winced. Was your heart broken when she left you too?

"Who was it?" Kate asked softly, reaching out but stopping short of her hand.

"I won't be raising any queers in my house."

Bella stared at her mate's hand, hating herself for hesitating before she reached for her and interlaced their fingers.

"My...biological mother." She noticed Kate's grimace. "I've told you about her?"

"You've told me enough." She murmured, tightening her grip on her hand. "What did she say?"

The time traveler was quiet for a moment, gathering her thoughts before speaking. "I heard voices as a child, so she sent me somewhere to get better. My mother called the voice Katherine...but she was wrong and I corrected her and," she took a breath, "She said she wouldn't raise any queers in her house." Bella couldn't meet Kate's gaze, "When I told Rosalie, Alice, and our sisters about liking women I was afraid. And now...I guess I know why."

A low growl escaped her mate. "To say that to a child…" She trailed off and gently cupped Bella's face in her hands. "Are you alright?"

The newborn shrugged, keeping her eyes lowered. "It doesn't matter. None of that matters. I can't even remember her or what she looks like."

"Bella-"

"I don't want to talk about it." My own mother didn't even want me. I would repulse her.

Shame washed over her, making her eyes burn. Why do I care? I don't remember her. I have Sasha. But the feeling remained. And there was something else. A feeling she didn't understand. It was one that weighed on her, made her feel lethargic and burdened and hopeless.

Swan, what is this feeling?

Kate sighed and pressed a kiss to her forehead. "Running won't make it go away." Bella tensed and her mate slipped her arms around her shoulders. "We'll talk about it later when you've had more time to process everything. Would that be alright?"

She nodded slowly before wrapping her arms around her waist. "Thank you...that would be nice."

The blonde held her tight and kissed her shoulder. "What I said earlier, I'm so sorry. I didn't mean it, I was just angry."

"...but you were right. They came back because they thought I was dead." She murmured. "I wonder if they would have bothered coming back at all." The thought unsettled her.

If Alice hadn't had that vision, would she even know the Cullens? Or would they go the rest of their days thinking she was living out her life as a human? Hurt and anger burned in her chest.

How long can I tell myself that what they did to Swan didn't matter? Her brow furrowed. Why start problems now? I'm friends with Rose and Alice. But what about Esme? She lied. She left. They all did. Rosalie and Alice and Emmett are here now, isn't that what matters? They left and the pack picked up the pieces. Paul and Jake and Leah picked up the pieces.

Kate pulled away, keeping her arms around her but fixing her with a frown. "No, I wasn't right, I was cruel." Her eyes filled with remorse, and for a moment Bella could have sworn she saw gold eyes turn cyan. "Forgive me, I didn't want to hurt you...I swear I didn't." A wry chuckle escaped her. "I'm older now. You'd think I'd be handling this better. I'm sorry. "

Bella waved her off. "You didn't mean it. You were just upset and-"

"Bella." She snapped, making her jump in surprise. "I know you're ready to overlook all my flaws, but don't." Bella stared at her mate with wide eyes, and a sigh escaped her. "It doesn't matter if I meant to hurt you or not, I still did, and I should be held accountable for that."

But your flaws are so minuscule. She wants to tell her. And they really don't bother me. Her mate always seemed to know what to say. She was smart and intuitive and loving. Bella wished she could recognize her own faults as quickly and easily as Kate did. Her mate was so good at seeing herself and correcting any changes she felt needed to be made. Even as a fiery human she was quick to apologize and try to change for the better.

"Hey," she spoke softly now, and Bella looked at her. "A long time ago I told you that you deserve better. I meant that. I still do." She interlaced their fingers and kissed the back of Bella's hand. "I'm sorry for being an idiot. I'm still quick to speak and slow to think-"

"I don't like it when you do that." Bella blurted out. "You don't give yourself any credit. I know what love is because of you."

Kate gave her a loving smile, pressing her lips to her forehead. "I just don't want either of us to become complacent with things we don't like. Tell me when you dislike what I'm doing, and I'll do the same." Bella nodded and her mate continued. "I dislike it when you turn a blind eye to my wrongdoings. Now you go."

Bella frowned, thinking for a moment before saying, "I dislike it when you're mean to yourself." This was nice. Swan, did you ever have this with anyone? She doubts it. The initial discomfort she felt slowly ebbed away as Kate gave her a brilliant smile.

"Okay. I'll be nicer to myself."

Bella smiled back. "And I'll tell you when I dislike something."

"Good." Kate kissed her. "I'm smitten with you."

The shield laughed, pushing her face away. "That's not even a fancy word!"

"Well, it's different than love! Love is boring! You know I love you. But did you know that I was smitten with you?" She didn't give her a chance to respond. "No! Not until I told you!"

Bella rolled her eyes playfully as Kate slipped her arms around her. "My dream girl is a nerd. Lucky me."

"And my forever girl is an illiterate jerk. Lucky me."

"I'm breaking up with you," Bella grunted as she was tackled to the couch. Kate straddled her lap, wearing a mock scowl and making Bella smile up at her in amusement.

"If we break up...I get Ghost." Hearing his name, the wolf pup scrambled out of the kitchen and to them.

"Like hell. I found him! I'm his actual mother!"

"And what am I?"

"His stepmother." Kate gasped in offense, making Bella laugh as she leaned down and scooped Ghost into her arms. The pup was getting bigger, heavier. He almost went up to her knees, and he was losing some of his puppy clumsiness. He licked her face, making her laugh, and throw her hands up to stop him.

Kate plucked the pup off of her chest, gave him a kiss between his pointed ears, and set him on the ground. "Your hateful mother and I need a moment." The white pup yipped at her and she rolled her eyes. "Watch your tone." He sneezed, shaking his head as he did so before putting his front paws on Kate's thigh.

Amber eyes looked up at her insistently and Bella laughed quietly. "I don't think he wants to leave."

"Bastard." She huffed, shifting to pick him up. "How am I supposed to ravish her when you get in the way?" Kate laid on her side on the couch, and Bella shifted over so Ghost could nestle between them. He buried his nose in the crook of Bella's neck and pressed his back against Kate's side.

Bella smiled as Kate gently slipped an arm around both of them. "This is nice." She reached over and rested her hand atop Kate's arm.

"Having sex is nice" She muttered, and Bella couldn't help but laugh at her mate's petulance. "We need our own room. No. We need our own house. You're very loud, and the last thing we need is my stupid sisters ruining everything."

Bella squinted at her. "Really? I'm loud?"

"You're not quiet."

"Neither are you."

Kate rolled her eyes. "I'm quieter than you."

"You sound like you're moaning into a fucking megaphone. Are you kidding me?" Kate looked at her with wide eyes.

"Cursing in front of Ghost? Now I'm definitely winning the custody battle."

Bella laughed and removed her hand from Kate's arm to cover one of Ghost's perked ears. "He didn't hear anything." Her pup looked at her with wide eyes before trying to play bite her hand.

"Now look. Your aggressive language has made him aggressive." Ghost rolled onto his back, mouth opened wide as Bella wiggled her fingers in front of his face. His tail wagged furiously as he batted at her hand with his paws.

She shot her mate a smile. "I'm just training him to be a fierce warrior...like his stepmother."

"Why you-" Kate expertly avoided Ghost as she crashed into Bella, knocking her off the couch and into the glass coffee table. It shattered, and the two burst into laughter as they laid there. Kate propped herself up on her elbows, long blonde hair creating a curtain around them.

Bella couldn't help but stare up at her in adoration. Her hands reached up and gently cupped her cheeks. Her thumb traced the small splatter of freckles that dotted the bridge of her nose.

"I adore you."

Kate's eyes burned with warmth and she leaned down so their noses were touching. She looked like she wanted to say something, but instead, she pressed her lips against hers. A purr rumbled in Bella's throat as Kate covered her body with her own. Strong hands held her wrists down, but before Kate could deepen the kiss she grunted in surprise.

A proud bark sounded from above them, and Bella pulled away to see that Ghost had landed on Kate's back. A peel of laughter escaped her and Kate grumbled in mock annoyance.

The approaching scents of Tanya, Alice, Irina, and Paul made Kate even more annoyed.

"Take a breath you horny, beautiful sapphics! We come bearing Paul!" Alice sang as she threw open the front door. What a pleasant greeting. Paul huffed out a laugh before frowning at them.

"Uh, what's happening? Why is Ghost-"

Kate twisted her body to catch Ghost before she got to her feet. "You again! I told you not to visit for a week!"

"I gave you three days!"

"Three is not equivalent to seven," Kate grumbled as she set Ghost down, who raced forward to greet everyone. Bella stood as well, noticing Irina and Tanya staring at the coffee table.

Tanya put her hands on her hips. "Honestly, we should know better than to leave you two alone together. Something always breaks!" Kate rolled her eyes while Bella gave her a sheepish smile.

"Sorry. Kate tackled me and-"

Irina scoffed, "Of course she did." She then gave Tanya a firm look before going to Bella's side. "Don't yell at my newborn. She can't help that her mate is impulsive."

Kate scowled while Tanya rolled her eyes. "Fine. I don't care who did it. One of you is going to sweep it up."

Irina shooed Kate towards the kitchen. "You heard her, go get the broom." She then hugged Bella, who smirked at her startled mate.

"Yeah, Kate, go sweep up your mess." Bella heckled, laughing as the warrior muttered curses under her breath and trudged into the kitchen to retrieve the broom. It was her fault. But it's also fun to tease her.

Paul cleared his throat and all gold eyes turned to him. "I have so many questions. That's why I'm here." He picked Ghost up, kissing his nose before putting him back down. "How can you do that thing with your mind? That force field? And the Bela thing...how did Kate know you liked being called that?"

Bella frowned. "Since when did I like being called that?"

The shifter looked slightly disappointed by her answer. "When we were kids we...nevermind. That doesn't matter. We'll talk about that later." He decided. "And Kate...it's been a while since I've seen the drawings, but is she your dream girl?"

Alice looked at Bella in confusion, as did Irina and Tanya. "Dream girl?"

Kate reappeared with a shit-eating smirk and the broom in hand. "Yes, Bella. Explain to them about me being your dream girl." She reached into her pocket. "Actually, I can do that for you-"

"Kate!" Bella groaned and buried her face into Irina's shoulder. "I hate you! Why do you have those!" Tanya took the picture from Kate and examined it.

Her face lit up and she grinned widely at her the newborn. "This is so adorable! Were you human when you drew this? You drew Kate as a human but..." This made her brow furrow as she passed the picture to Alice.

The seer's eyes widened. "How...how is that possible?" She gave the picture to Irina. "Unless...you saw echos of the past?"

Paul looked lost. "Echos of the past?"

Bella hated the way all eyes looked at her expectantly. She sighed and turned to her friend. "I don't know about the echos of the past but...you might want to sit down. This is a long story."

---

Rosalie hit the ball, and it flew nearly as far as Emmett's had. She raced forward, pleased with the delighted sound Bella made as she clapped her hands together excitedly.

"Whoa! That has to be a home run." She enthused. "Go, Rosalie!" Bella didn't normally sound so animated. Usually, she was shy and quiet, but she broke character in the midst of her own excitement for Rosalie's success. This made the blonde smile. It was adorable.

"Maybe," Esme hummed in contemplation. "But Edward's pretty fast." Rosalie rolled her eyes but was mindful of her brother as she rounded the bases. She heard Edward's deft footsteps approaching as she sped past Jasper on second.

"Careful," the soldier murmured, voice thick with amusement. "Edward is excited to show off."

Rosalie smirked. "So am I." Her family was already used to her vampiric beauty as well as her abilities. Having Bella there to cheer for her made her feel good. She soaked in admiration like a plant did the sunlight.

She sped past Emmett, smiling at his wolf whistle before running faster to make it to home plate. The ball whizzed through the air, and Esme stood on home plate with her gloved outstretched.

Rosalie slid, hitting the base just as Esme caught the ball and smacked her thigh with it. A cloud of dust wafted through the air, and Bella stared at the two with wide eyes. They shined with childlike wonder as she shifted from one foot to the other.

"Safe?" Rosalie smirked, standing to her feet and approaching the human.

"Good call. You make a great umpire." Her face bloomed red and she quickly averted her gaze.

"Don't you guys think it's a little silly that you're letting the human be the umpire? I can hardly see anything." Bella muttered, and Rosalie nearly laughed as she reached out and grabbed her hand.

"Would you rather be the pitcher? Maybe the catcher?"

Bella squinted at her. "I'd rather be the impartial audience."

"You're our impartial umpire."

She blinked. "Until I make a wrong call and one of you decides to eat me."

Edward laughed, raising his voice so his girlfriend could hear him. "I wouldn't let that happen."

Bella smiled teasingly at him. "You're all the way over there. Imagine the horror that would befall on me if I had called Rosalie out."

Rosalie nodded. "Oh, I'd definitely eat you then." She then removed her hand from hers and patted her cheek. "Make sure to continue using your impeccable judgment."

Bella watched her walk to the back of the line. "That's why you invited me? So you could intimidate me into helping your team win?"

She smirked. "That, and it's nice to have a cheerleader around." Her friend's face resembled a cherry, and she scowled at her before turning away quickly, making Rosalie laugh under her breath.

Emmett's thunderous laugh echoed across the field. "Yes! We have to play in the summer and get our Bella a miniskirt!" Alice giggled while Bella buried her face in her hands. "Might get Edward's undead heart racing!"

Edward, surprisingly, laughed. His posture was relaxed and his smile was an easy one as Bella shot him a scowl.

"You always make my undead heart race, Bella." Rosalie would have gagged if it weren't beneath her. "Don't let Emmett make you embarrassed." Edward said, his smile broadening as Bella's cheeks bloomed red and her heart stuttered in her chest.

Perhaps there was a part of her that was glad that her brother had found Bella. He was much happier now, far less brooding and self-loathing. Seeing him happy was nice at times, when she wasn't thinking about how his happiness stemmed from a lie that he genuinely seemed to believe.

But they were both happy. Maybe she should leave it alone. 'But it's not right.' She could feel Edward's gaze but she didn't bother looking at him and instead got back in the batting line.

Esme wrapped Bella in a hug and smiled. "Ignore my rowdy children, and don't let Rose intimidate you. You're a great umpire."

Bella hugged her back before a small laugh escaped her. "Rose is a lot of things, but intimidating isn't one of them."

"Is that a challenge?"

"I believe it was a fact." Bella shot back, laughing and moving behind Esme when Rosalie hissed at her.

Esme gave her a stern look. "Behave."

Rosalie snorted. "Tell that to the mouthy human that's hiding behind you."

Bella looked more amused than anything. "You guys are so much like cats, it's almost cute."

"I'll show you cute-"

"As hot as this is, can you two stop flirting? We have a game to play!" Emmett heckled, grinning broadly at Bella's red face and Rosalie's middle finger. The blonde didn't miss the looks that Jasper and Alice exchanged.

Alice abruptly froze. "Stop!" She yelled, and that's when the scent of strange vampires washed over her. "Rose, don't."

Rosalie glared at her before looking out at the field. Three intruders emerged from the treeline, all bearing red eyes. "No promises."

"Babe? You alright? You spaced out on me." Rosalie looked away from the treeline.

"Fine."

An annoyed huff escaped Bella as she stopped next to her. "It had to be baseball. America's most boring pastime."

Tanya looked at her. "This game will be a good way to ease the tensions between our families. We can't defeat Victoria if we're too busy fighting each other."

Eleazar nodded enthusiastically. "An excellent point, Tanya."

Carmen smiled. "I know how angry you are, and I'm very proud of your maturity."

Tanya preened under her praise. "Thank you."

"A baseball game to mend wounds?" Irina muttered, though she sounded somewhat excited.

"I guess it'll be more fun since we're vampires." Bella mused. "Still, not a very compelling sport if I'm being honest."

Kate crept up from behind Bella and smacked her ass, making her yelp in surprise. "Baseball is good for one thing. Your butt in those pants-" she laughed as Bella jumped on her.

"Perv!" They slammed into the ground, both giggling as they wrestled to get the upper hand.

"You love it!"

Tanya sighed. "As adorable as this is, can we please play?"

Bella shoved Kate off of her before jumping to her feet. "I'm on Tanya's team!" She raced over to the Denali leader, making Kate gawk in disbelief.

"What!"

Tanya smirked, giving Bella's cheek a light pinch before turning to Kate. "I call, not Kate." Her sister flipped her off and she laughed. "You and Bella can't be on the same team anyway. You two will distract each other and annoy everyone."

"Of course, my meddlesome sister doesn't wish to see true love flourish," Kate muttered. "I suppose being rivals will spice up our relationship-"

"For the love of god, stop talking." Rosalie sighed before strolling over to Bella and Tanya. "I'm on your team."

Bella grinned at her. "My begrudging bestie number two just can't stay away."

"Shut the hell up."

Emmett jumped to Kate's side. "Then I'll be on Kate's team." He gave her a playful nudge, one she didn't return. Kate glanced at Emmett, looking unsure before she turned away from him. Is she giving my entire family the cold shoulder?

"Is there a problem, Kate?"

"I don't know, Rose, is there?" The Denali bared her teeth at her. "You seem to enjoy going around and starting pointless arguments."

Before she could retort she met Eleazar's gaze. She gritted her teeth before relaxing her defensive stance. "No. I just noticed that you looked...unhappy. Perhaps you'd like to switch teams with me?" Rosalie was more than annoyed by all the surprised looks that she was given. However, the approving smile she gained from Eleazar meant everything.

I don't want to be good. I want to be better.

Kate eyed her suspiciously before sighing. "I'm fine." She then smirked at Bella. "Besides, I can still show Bella how easy it is for me to get a home run."

Her mate stared at her dryly. "Don't combine innuendos with sports, or else you'll barely make it past second base." Emmett giggled and Kate's mouth fell open in disbelief.

Tanya cleared her throat. "Sorry to interrupt, but I've already chosen the teams." Before anyone could complain she listed off the teams. "Me, Bella, Emmett, and Carmen against Irina, Rosalie, Kate, and Alice. Eleazar has volunteered to be the catcher for both teams and the umpire."

Bella frowned, looking down at her feet as she muttered to herself. "An impartial umpire, hopefully."

Rosalie couldn't help but say, "Yes, he'll be impartial, until he makes the wrong call and one of us decides to eat him."

Gold eyes flickered upwards and a small smile graced Bella's lips. "Think you'll get another home run?"

"You remember that?"

"I remember a little." She said. "You, Emmett, and Alice." Bella turned to the seer. "Looking back on it, I'm pretty sure Rose was out."

Alice laughed and Rosalie scowled at her. "You're such a pest." She didn't know why that comment got under her skin so easily. You're trying to be better. Do some self-reflection. But being better was harder than she thought it'd be, and she growled at Bella before stalking off towards home plate. "We're batting first."

Emmett groaned. "C'mon babe, don't be like that." She ignored him.

Bella surprised everyone by growling under her breath. "Every fucking time." She then gestured to Tanya. "You're pitching. I'll take third." She said gruffly, jamming her hands into her pocket and stalking off towards her position.

You did it again. You lashed out and pushed her away. Rosalie ignored Irina and Kate's pointed glares, already berating herself for her behavior. Bella was only teasing, why did it bother me so much?

A gentle hand gripped her shoulder and she was awakened from her musings. "It will take time," Eleazar said softly before giving her a reassuring smile. She nodded stiffly, and while she was grateful for his support, she was extremely frustrated that she wasn't instantly a better person.

Alice danced up to her, giving her a swift hug and planting a kiss on her cheek. "I love you." Rosalie blinked in surprise.

"I...I love you too."

"Enough to let me go first?" Before she could even blink Alice had slipped the bat out of her hands and hip bumped her out of the way. "Thanks!" Rosalie rolled her eyes and stepped back to let her sister go.

She thought of when Bella was human. The girl had been so impressed with her beauty and speed and strength. And now she's used to it. Her eyes widened. She's not admiring me anymore and that's what upsets me.

It was so absurd, but the sting of no longer being extraordinary in Bella's eyes was present. Bella no longer gawked at her or gave her those awkward compliments. And that bothered her.

Rosalie didn't have powers, she wasn't the fastest or the strongest or the smartest. Around all the other vampires she was just Rosalie.

Bella was the friend she had never deserved, and now that she was a vampire, maybe she'd realize that. Don't be ridiculous. Bella isn't like that. But her insecurity lingered and she hardly registered the baseball bat sliding into her hands.

"Relax," Eleazor murmured, and she forced herself to loosen up. She wished Esme was with her. She wished she and Emmett could go home so she could confide in him. She wished she could get Bella alone and explain herself and apologize for her transgressions.

"Go, Rose!" Alice cheered from second base.

"I love you, babe, but don't think I'll let you win because of that!" Emmett laughed, and the two had effectively dragged her from her turmoil. Whatever quip Kate made didn't register.

Rosalie shook herself off, giving the bat a little flip before gripping it tightly. Tanya let the ball fly and Rosalie narrowed her eyes before smacking it as hard as she could.

It sailed into the air and she took off running.

"Dibs!" Emmett bellowed, racing after the ball as it flew into the woods. Bella had never liked sports, but now that didn't seem to be the case. She followed Emmett part way, snatching the ball out of midair as he launched it towards her.

Rosalie rounded third and Bella threw it as hard as she could at Eleazar.

"Don't screw this up for us, Rose," Irina said, though not unkindly. She was invested in the game, and Kate was the same way as she glanced worriedly at the ball coming towards home.

Alice had made it home and was yelling at her in encouragement. However, Rose thought better and stopped abruptly before retreating to third. This could be a good time to talk to Bella.

Eleazar caught the ball and nodded to her. "Smart play. It would have been a close one," he then smiled at her, "Though, I suspect you would have been safe."

Rosalie smiled at him before glancing at Bella. The brunette wouldn't look at her, and her lips pursed in slight annoyance. I know I screwed up but please forgive me already.

Before she could say a word, of course, Kate interrupted them. "Brace yourself, Bella! This hit is a home run!" She crowed, and Rosalie rolled her eyes as Bella smirked.

"We'll see."

Kate hit the ball, a grounder, and Rosalie frowned as she ran to home plate. Bella was grinning and clapping excitedly for Kate, who preened from the praise. The scene was achingly familiar, and for that reason alone Rosalie forced herself to look away.

She would have cheered you on if you hadn't snapped at her. Rosalie made it home, surprised when Irina clapped her shoulder and gave her a smile.

"Good run!" She removed her hand and gestured at Kate. "It's one we needed, for I fear my sister will get out."

The warrior ran fast, flipping Irina off and making her younger sister scowl at her retreating form. Right as Emmett was about to field the ball Kate rounded first and smacked his arm.

He yelped in surprise as electricity coursed through his body and made him collapse. Rosalie growled under her breath but didn't call her out for cheating. She still wanted to win, after all, and Emmett often asked the Denali to shock him so he could "build up a tolerance," which he never could but it was almost cute that he tried.

"Katrina Denali!" Carmen scolded, racing for the ball as Kate made it to third.

"I knew you'd cheat!" Tanya groaned while Irina laughed.

"Run, Kate! Run!"

Bella watched her mate with a small smile as she stopped on third and planted a kiss on her cheek. Carmen had the ball in her hand and was squinting at the warrior as she tossed it back to Tanya.

"I could have gotten a homerun. But then I'd miss the opportunity to romance you." Kate grinned, slipping an arm around Bella's waist and pulling her closer.

The time traveler leaned into her. "What a sweet excuse to make for your shitty hit." Kate scowled at her and Bella giggled. "I'm a sucker for losers, apparently. Losers and cheaters."

"Don't let her distract you!" Alice warned as Irina went up to bat, but Kate paid her no mind.

"A cheater? I'm just using what I was given in order to win." Kate snorted, "And I only win, my sweet, silly Bella."

Emmett stumbled to his feet and shook himself off. "Ouch. Dammit, Kate! I'll get you back for that one!" The blonde ignored him as well. It didn't seem intentional. She was too enraptured with her mate.

Bella smirked at her, "I'm sure you'll find my team winning, perfunctory."

The warrior's eyes darkened and her grin broadened. "Ooh. I like-"

"Stop being repulsive and run!" Irina shouted as she hit the ball. Tanya yelled something and jumped high into the air, nearly catching the ball but it skimmed the tops of her fingers.

Kate gave Bella a wink and a hard kiss before she darted away.

Emmett picked the ball off the ground and Bella held up her hand. "Give it to me." He tossed it to her without question, and right as Kate was about to make it home she slammed into an invisible wall.

Bella moved forward right as her mate flew back. She caught the warrior with ease, a smirk on her lips as she kissed Kate's nose and tapped her gently with the ball.

Kate looked up at her in surprise and Eleazar gave a hearty laugh. "Out!"

"Hey, that's cheating!" Alice yelled, and Bella stuck her tongue out at her.

"She started it! Tell her to keep her powers out of it, and I won't use mine." She then smiled broadly at Kate, who still looked stunned by the entire situation. "Oh no, I think I broke you." Bella laughed quietly, kissing her lips briefly before pulling her away and setting her on her feet. "It's the pine tree incident all over again."

This seemed to awaken Kate from her stupor. "I don't know how, but I'll get you back for that." Her eyes gleamed with mischief, and Bella smirked.

"Good luck with that."

Emmett cheered, "Hell yeah! Take that!" Bella set Kate on her feet and Emmett bounded over to them. "That was so cool, Bellsy!" He looked as though he were about to hug her before he stopped himself. Instead, he stuck out his fist and grinned at her.

Bella eyed it for a moment before gently tapping her knuckles against his. "Thanks." Rosalie watched her carefully. She slightly shied away from him, but the discomfort was hard to detect. Emmett was getting better, and if he continued to be mindful of her discomfort, then Bella would get better.

Tanya smiled at Bella. "Good play!" She then shot her sister a warning look. "No powers, Kate."

The warrior rolled her eyes. "Yeah, yeah." She then gave Bella a sly look before running back to home plate.

When the teams switched Bella was the first to bat. Alice stood on the pitcher mound, Rosalie at shortstop, Irina at first, and Kate at third.

Kate was the first to cheer for her mate. "Get a home run!" Irina and Alice cheered for her as well, but Rosalie remained quiet. Bella beamed at the praise from the opposing team as well as her own. I should cheer for her. It's her first time playing. But she didn't. Instead, she watched as she swung the bat and struck the ball with ease.

It flew far and Rosalie watched with wide eyes as Bella sped forward. Seeing Bella at the same skill level as the rest of them was incredible, exciting. She moved so swiftly it was as though Rosalie was watching an entirely different person.

Kate raced after the ball and Rosalie couldn't stop the smile that spread across her lips. "Go, Bella!" She clapped her hands together, surprising herself and making Bella look at her with wide eyes. The brunette bore a small smile, one Rosalie returned as she watched her friend round the bases. She reached third when Kate launched the ball at Rosalie.

She caught it with ease before darting forward, racing Bella to home plate. They were neck in neck, and Bella slid just as Rosalie threw herself forward. Dirt flew into the air, obscuring Eleazar's vision, but not Rosalie's as Bella tagged the base at the exact same time as Rosalie tagged her.

They were both on the ground. Rosalie on her stomach and Bella on her side.

"That's out, it has to be!" Alice yelled.

"No way, my Bella is safe!" Kate argued, making the seer look at her in disbelief.

"Kate, we're on the same team."

Emmett nodded. "She's safe, I saw it!" They all knew he was lying and, like the rest of them, he only wanted to win.

Eleazar shrugged, looking helpless. "I couldn't see it."

Rosalie got to her feet, brushing herself and tossing the ball back to Alice. "She's safe." She reached her hand out to Bella, who looked at it for a moment before accepting it. "You're pretty good at baseball for someone who dislikes the sport."

Her friend gave her a small smile, releasing her hand and shrugging. "Well, I learned how to slide from you. So...thanks." I'm getting better. Bella placed her hand on her shoulder and gave it a light squeeze before she got back into the line. We're getting better.

Eleazar gave her an approving nod, and for the first time in almost a year, Rosalie felt genuinely happy with herself.

---

He stood there, trying not to be awkward as Bella laughed and slipped her arms around his neck. She looked beautiful in her tight black dress. It was a little shorter than he was comfortable with, and she was drawing more attention than he liked, but he knew it wasn't his place to chastise her for her wardrobe.

He was trying to be less controlling. He didn't want to be overbearing and drive her away. So he took Alice's advice, and they all went to the bar despite his discomfort.

"Oh yeah!" Emmett danced his way next to them. "Bella! When you're done dancing with that square, you're dancing with me and Rosalie!" Rosalie was behind him, looking amused and annoyed as Emmett turned to face her, "Let's do this, babe!"

A small laugh escaped her and she took his hand and led him to the middle of the dance floor, hips swaying and a coy smile on her lips as she looked back at Emmett.

Bella watched them leave, going still and he felt her skin heat up. "Bella?" She straightened, turning to him with a wide smile.

"Edward!" She shouted over the pulsing music. "You should get a drink! You're very stiff!" She then winked at him, "In more ways than one!"

Edward couldn't help but crack the smallest smile, though he felt embarrassment seep into his skin at the sound of his siblings laughing. He wasn't entirely comfortable with Bella being inebriated, he didn't see the appeal, but it was part of the human experience, and didn't he want Bella to have that?

"I'm not a very good dancer." He confessed, leaning closer so she could hear him better. "This type of music is...unfamiliar to me."

Are you ever going to get that stick out of your ass?

He shot Emmett a glare.

Loosen up! Kiss her! Dance like a maniac! This is part of being human, Ed. Have fun with her.

His anger faltered. Oftentimes he was aggravated by Emmett's childish nature, but his brother was truly one of the kindest people he knew. Even when he didn't deserve it, Emmet showed him compassion, and he would always love him for that.

Taking his advice, he allowed his posture to relax, and he moved to the pulsing beat of the music. Bella beamed at him, face heating up and eyes filled with excitement. She smelled faintly of alcohol, but her natural scent easily overpowered the less enticing smell.

Edward's self-control was much better than it had been. But sometimes he felt an ache in his jaw and a burning in his throat. He wanted to bite her. The craving to do so made him feel monstrous. It made him remember just how truly vile his kind was.

"Edward?" Her voice garnered his attention. Even in her inebriated state, she was so perceptive of his emotions. "You're not dancing anymore." She pouted, "You're doing that thing again. That brooding thing! Stop that." She demanded, making him crack a small smile.

"I'm sorry." He gently placed his hands on her hips. "Is this alright?" Bella had always been good at getting him out of his own head. Though, he always marveled at how easily she accepted his vampirism. Sometimes she even made him feel good about himself.

Bella seemed startled for a moment before she nodded vigorously. "This is great." Her eyes darkened and he had to force himself to look away. Bella was always a temptation for him. Her blood. Her body. Her soul. But he wouldn't take any of her. He wouldn't make her a monster.

Rosalie's thoughts pulled him out of the moment. You're supposed to ask before you touch her. She was right, but they both knew she was nitpicking. Monitor yourself. I'd hate to have to step in.

Edward appreciated his sister's protective nature of his mate, but he wished she wasn't quick to presume the worst of him. He would never take advantage of Bella, or of any woman.

Rosalie's eyes met his, and it was as though she read his mind. A mocking smile played on her lips. Don't take it personally, dear brother. I distrust most men, with the exception of Emmett. But not the exception of you. He nearly flinched when he saw flashes of Royce sneering over her. Then he saw the men encircling Bella like a pack of wolves, one of them reaching out to smack her butt.

His jaw clenched. "I wouldn't do that." He said, speaking too quietly for Bella to hear. What had happened to his sister was vile. Traumatic.

Sometimes, in quiet moments, she would think back to that night. It broke his heart to know that those men continued to haunt her, and he was always quick to leave her mind when the memory occurred.

Emmett encircled his arms around his mate's waist and dragged her closer to him. "Are you playing nice?"

Cold gold eyes tore away from him and she looked up at Emmett. "Oh, I'm being unbelievably generous."

Alice and Jasper had joined Emmett and Rosalie on the dancefloor, and when their younger sister touched Rosalie's shoulder, the blonde relaxed slightly. Emmett was good at calming her, but she had always had a soft spot for Alice, and no one could put her at ease as Esme could.

"You know he wouldn't do that," Alice murmured. You can't blame her for being cautious. And he couldn't.

Rosalie glanced at Edward. "I know you wouldn't...and I know she's your singer, but you crossed lines when you first met her. And for that reason alone I will always be watching you."

He grimaced, wearing shame like a second skin. "I understand." He had never meant to take it that far. His bloodlust had been intense, as had his infatuation with his mate, and it was almost as though he couldn't help himself.

'But she's right. That's no excuse for my actions.'

"Good."

Have fun with her. Just be careful. For your sake. He recognized the threat, but he was unfazed. If he overstepped any bounds, he knew he'd deserve whatever punishments were to follow.

When Edward had left Carlisle, Rosalie, and Esme; he had hunted down men with the same thoughts and motivation as Royce. When he drained them he thought of Rosalie, and how he never wanted another woman to experience what his sister had gone through.

Bella nearly had. The very thought of it sickened him. It enraged him. Despite Rosalie saving her, he could tell that she was still troubled by it.

Bella was now claustrophobic, unable to be surrounded by too many people at a time, and only feeling truly at ease when she was with a member of the Cullen family.

He had tried to help but he never knew how. But Rosalie took better care of Bella. She gave him tips on how to help her cope with the incident. And though his sister was very critical of him, he was forever thankful for her.

"Thank you, Rose. Thank you for protecting her."

She stared at him for a moment before looking away. "It's not because I like her."

This made him chuckle, and Bella scowled up at him. "Hey, general giggles, what are you so smiley about?" She turned and looked at his siblings before her scowl deepened. "You vamps and your damned secrets! So rude!"

Edward was surprised by her anger. "I apologize. I don't mean to exclude you."

She's so cute! Like an angry kitten! Alice's thoughts were loud and made him wince.

Bella rolled her eyes. "Geez, Ed Edd and Eddy, you're making me feel bad."

Ed Edd and Eddy! She's a drunk genius! Edward sighed, shooting a glare at Emmett who was grinning widely now.

Jasper gave Edward a small smile. Maybe the new nickname won't stick? But they both knew better, however, he appreciated his brother's optimism.

Bella got on her tiptoes, giving him a deep kiss, and his hands tightened ever so slightly on her waist. She made him feel intoxicated, especially when she pressed her body against his and he could feel her heart thundering in her chest and her pulse fluttering as he kissed her back.

He loved her. He had loved her for a while now. And he wasn't sure he'd ever get over just how alive he felt when he was with her.

Hell yeah! Get it, Ed Edd and Eddy!

Remembering she needed to breathe he pulled away, looking her over worriedly as she tried to catch her breath.

"Bella, you have to breathe." He stressed, and she sucked in a breath before she shook her head.

"Breathing is for bitches." Emmett and Alice's laughter made him smile. Bella smiled back before she pulled away from him. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I must urinate."

Rosalie gave Emmett a parting kiss before moving to Bella's side. "I'll take her."

Bella looked past her and met Alice's gaze. With a wide grin, she waggled her eyebrows and the seer looked at her with a mix of anxiety and amusement.

Please don't do anything stupid. When she noticed Edward look at her curiously she quickly began thinking of scenes from The Devil Wears Prada. He narrowed his eyes, wondering what she was hiding.

Bella grabbed Rosalie's hand. "Lead the way, bathroom buddy!" Before his sister could retort the brunette turned to him. "I'll be back in a minute, beloved!" She blew him a kiss, and he smiled, catching it out of midair and putting it over his un-beating heart. She gasped. "That was so cute!"

Rosalie rolled her eyes. "Let's go, idiot." She gave her hand an impatient tug and Bella laughed before following her. "I'll wait outside the bathroom."

"But bathroom buddies have to go in together!"

"We're not bathroom buddies. I'm just making sure you're...I just want you to be safe on the trip there and back."

"Oh...so you're my bodyguard buddy?"

"You're so annoying. Shut up."

"You got it BB. Bodyguard buddy-"

"Bella."

"Yes...BB? Ow!" Rosalie very gently smacked her shoulder, making Bella's face pucker.

"That didn't hurt."

Bella stared at her. "Well, it hurt my feelings."

Rosalie tugged her hand again, "Stop talking." This time Bella obeyed, but not before she giggled and made a motion of zipping her lips shut.

Edward watched them go with a smile before approaching the rest of his siblings.

"You and Emmett were right," he told Alice. "This is...fun. I'm having fun with her." He hesitated before saying. "I'm sorry I yelled at you both for taking her out. I was worried and I did a poor job of conducting myself." He then addressed Jasper, "And thank you for helping me realize how controlling I was being." He didn't know where he'd be without his siblings.

Emmett gave him an easy-going smile. "Don't sweat it, baby bro. We always have your back, you know that." Edward rolled his eyes but his lips quirked upward. Emmett was only physically older than him by a year, and despite Edward being older, his larger brother insisted he was a baby.

Before any more could be said, he heard Bella gasp. "Oh! Uh...hi." Her voice echoed off the bathroom wall, and Edward frowned when he heard the sultry laugh of a woman.

"You're back."

"Erm, yeah."

"And you're drunk again." The girl sounded a bit drunk herself.

"Only, like, a lot." She muttered, turning on the sink. "But it's cool, I'm cool, you're...uh...you're cool."

Edward looked at Alice curiously, but she seemed just as lost as he was. Emmett, however, looked on edge. Shit. This girl again, and in front of everyone. Bella knew this girl?

Jasper nudged Alice. "You should go get her."

The seer's eyes flashed with understanding, but still, her thoughts were only of her favorite movie. "You're right."

The girl spoke again. "I'm cool, but you're cute." Edward's eyes widened, and he winced at the obscene images that entered the girl's mind. He felt a surge of protectiveness wash over him, and had Alice not already made her way to the bathroom, he would have intervened.

However, as it turned out, Alice wasn't needed.

"Excuse me, who the hell are you? And why the fuck are you touching her? Get your hands off her before I rip them off your body."

The girl's voice sounded surprised, but Edward heard her step away. "Sorry, I was only having a conversation with her...geez, I'm sorry sweetheart, what's your name?"

"B-"

Rosalie all but growled. "Don't answer that." She then addressed the girl. "You talk with your mouth, not your hands, you repulsive little gremlin. She's with someone, so if you would stop wasting our time with your mediocre flirting, I would appreciate that."

"Hey, I'm sorry, I didn't realize she had a girlfriend." The girl chuckled, "Last time she said she had a boyfriend and a dream girl, but you're clearly an upgrade." She then spoke to Bella. "Looks like you found your dream girl. Good for you. But next time a head's up would be nice."

Rosalie's thoughts echoed his own. Dream girl?

Jasper's thoughts were more apprehensive. She needs to remain calm. That's all she has to do.

Bella sounded as though she were in a daze. "Next time?"

"I'm a regular here, stranger." Her voice was still flirtatious. "I'm sure I'll see you and your pretty girlfriend again."

"Erm, she's not-"

"So help me if you ever put your hands on her again, I'll end your pitiful existence. Do I make myself clear?"

This time the girl sounded rattled when she responded. "Uh-yeah I got it. Sorry, I didn't mean to make anyone upset-"

"Quiet. Your grating voice is hurting my ears." His sister then addressed Bella. "Let's go." Rosalie all but demanded, and the rest of the Cullens watched as she dragged her out of the bathroom and headed their way. Edward watched them curiously as Rosalie slowed and looked at Bella with a frown. "Dream girl?"

Bella's eyes widened. "Y-You know, like a girl crush!" She stammered. "My girl crush is Chloe from Pitch Perfect...oh! And Zendaya! And Lupita!" She rushed out, and Rosalie rolled her eyes.

"Chloe? Really?"

"She's very pretty!"

"She's okay."

"You're just mean and you don't like that she's happy and cheerful! You're like Lauren in the first Pitch Perfect." Bella accused, "Mean and unable to see that Chloe is perfect for Beca!"

"God. Not this again." Rosalie muttered. "Alice, please take over and please get Bella a drink. She's exhausting."

Edward swiftly moved forward. "Actually, I'll take her." Bella smiled up droopily at him and latched onto his arm with ease. "Would you like to continue dancing? Or we could-"

"Go home. This place sucks," Bella grumbled. Worried brown eyes looked past him and he turned around to see a blonde girl looking at his mate. When the girl noticed him she smirked before turning back to her friends.

Her thoughts caught his attention. Both of her hands on Bella's waist and Bella looking at her with blown pupils.

"Bella-" she released his arm, heart rate picking up as she shoved through the crowd and out the door.

Rosalie pushed past him. "I'll check on her."

Alice jumped in front of her. "Actually, that's a terrible idea. I'll go instead."

Their sister looked affronted. "I know how to take care of her, Alice. Get out of my way."

The seer shook her head. "Rose, you have to trust me on this one. Things will fall apart if you go after her." Edward frowned and tried to see into her mind, but she was blocking him out with the strange thought of dancing sheep.

Alice was hiding something. So were Jasper and Emmett. 'Rosalie and I are the only ones left in the dark.' It infuriated him.

Edward slipped past his sisters. "I'll take Bella home." Rosalie rolled her eyes but relented.

"She's drunk."

He clenched his jaw. "I wouldn't-"

"Stalkers tend to struggle with personal boundaries," Rosalie growled before turning on her heel. "Emmett, we can stay for ten more minutes. But then we're going home."

Her mate nodded. "It's definitely not as fun without drunk Bella."

Edward glared at his sister. "I wish you didn't think so poorly of me."

She didn't even glance in his direction. "I wish you didn't give me a reason to think so poorly of you."

She knows you won't do anything. Emmett thought. She can be a bit overprotective. Sometimes she sees herself in Bella.

Edward sighed, giving his brother a nod before leaving the bar. He found Bella sitting in his car, and his eyes widened. He quickly got into the driver's seat and started the engine.

"Bella, it's freezing out here." Besides a light jacket, she wasn't wearing any layers.

The girl was shivering and curled into the passenger seat. Her nose and ears were a bright red and she looked at him groggily.

"Forgot. Took a very short nap." She grumbled, and he looked her over worriedly as he blasted the heat.

"Have I done something to upset you?"

Bella frowned at him. "No?"

He thought about the blonde girl. "Was it that girl?" When she said nothing he asked. "Did you...did you like it when she touched you?"

She snorted and turned away from him. "At least someone does." His eyes widened and she laughed at him. "I'm drunk. Of course I'm horny."

He put the car in reverse and drove out of the parking lot. "Do you still think you're interested in women?" He asked. "I must confess that I have a difficult time understanding how someone could be attracted to both genders. Men and women are so different. I don't quite understand being able to love them both in a romantic way."

Bella looked paler than normal. "I don't like girls, okay? You were right, I was just confused." She sounded angry, disgusted, even.

Edward winced. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to offend. I worded that poorly. I only meant that I don't understand how it works, I wasn't questioning the validity of bisexuals-"

"It doesn't matter!" She yelled. "God! Just drop it! I'm not a fucking bisexual! I don't like women! It's gross. You were right, I was just confused and I shouldn't have said anything." There was hurt in her voice that was nearly buried beneath the anger. Anguish. And it pained him.

The mind reader wished more than anything that he could read Bella's. "I didn't mean to make you angry. I'm sorry." He wasn't sure what to think. Bella seemed very adamantly against liking women, but the blonde girl's mind told a different story.

He considered this for a moment. 'She is drunk. That could be it.' But he was still unsure.

"I know you're not bisexual." He finally said. "But even if you were, I wouldn't love you any less. I hope you know that. I'm sorry I was so dismissive of your feelings earlier. I don't know how you're feeling, and it was awful of me to call you confused."

Bella's eyes watered. "You were right, I was confused, but none of that matters now. I love you, Edward. I only want you." She murmured, reaching over and interlacing their fingers.

Edward brought her hand up to his lips and kissed it. "I love you too." He wasn't sure why, but his eyes burned with venom. "I only want you to be happy."

She smiled sadly at him. "I am."

But she wasn't, and he had seen that. He knew Bella loved him, but he also knew she longed for more. She longed for something he couldn't give her. Immortality and something else. Someone else? He didn't know.

He shouldn't be back here, he knew that, but neither should Rosalie or Alice or Emmett. They weren't answering his phone calls or his text messages, and they hardly responded to Carlisle and Esme.

They kept their whereabouts discreet. Alice would speak with Jasper often, but even then she didn't reveal too much about what she was up to. They were no longer in New York, that much was clear, but they all refused to speak to him or reveal where they truly were.

They keep saying they're in random locations, but that's a lie. Alice even discouraged Jasper from joining them, and that's when he knew exactly where they were.

His siblings had guarded their thoughts very carefully before they left. Rosalie and Alice had lied through their teeth about going on a shopping trip, and Emmett had said he wanted to visit them before leaving as well.

He should have known that they'd all be selfish enough to come visit Bella. How is she supposed to move on if they visit her? Edward wouldn't pretend that he wasn't eager to see her again, if only to catch a glimpse of his beloved he had to leave behind.

It was for her own good. We're not safe. We're not good for her. He frowned when he approached her house but found it empty, and he scaled up to her window with ease and entered her room.

"This is wrong." Dust covered her things, indicating she hadn't been there for quite some time. He inhaled deeply, eyes narrowing when he caught the scent of three other vampires.

"Kate, Carmen, and someone else has been in here." He muttered, "But Bella hasn't." His cousins were in Forks, but why? Edward could smell the lingering scent of Charlie from downstairs, as well as the fresh scents of the shifters, and his nose wrinkled in disgust.

They've been here, but they haven't come up to her room. He was filled with dread at what that could mean, and, not knowing where else to go, he decided to return to his old home.

He had been distracted on the way to Bella's house, paying his surroundings no mind. All he had been able to think about was Bella, so when he saw her faded missing poster he felt a spike in his anxiety.

Edward stopped, ripping it off the pole and staring at it in horror. "Bella." His phone was out in seconds, and before he knew it he was calling Carlisle. His father answered on the first ring and he was all but yelling into the phone, "Bella's missing and I don't know what to do. She hasn't been to her house in what seems to be months, her posters are hanging out, and the Denali's are here-"

"Son." His soothing voice wasn't enough to calm him, but it did make him stop rambling. "Your mother and I are on our way. She's on the phone with Jasper, we'll arrive at Forks as soon as we can and help you search. For now, wait for us at the house."

Venom blurred his vision and he nodded, "Okay. Okay...alright. Thank you." I shouldn't have left her. What if she's hurt? What if she...no. Don't think like that. You have to keep it together. You have to find her.

"Edward. I'm going to hang up now. Call Alice, maybe she'll have some idea on where Bella could be." Edward felt small. He felt helpless.

"Could...could you stay on the phone with me for a moment longer?"

He could practically see his father's gentle smile. "Of course. I'll stay on the line for as long as you need me."

"Thank you." He murmured, keeping the phone to his ear as he made his way towards the house. The scents were alarming. It was a mix of Cullen and Denali, a new scent that he hardly recognized, and the smell of shifters.

"The shifters have been in our territory...it smells like they cross the border often. Rosalie, Alice, and Emmett are here too. Just as I suspected. So are all the Denali's."

"Maybe they've found her," Carlisle suggested, "Regardless, we're still coming to Forks. This whole situation has made Esme and Jasper very distraught, so we'd like to see her for ourselves." If Edward didn't know any better he would have thought Carlisle to be indifferent towards the situation. But his father had a slight tremor in his voice, one filled with worry. He's trying to stay calm for my sake.

Edward pressed on, running faster so he could confront the vampires and get answers.

My last words to her were filled with cruelty. He had hated himself for that, but he had deemed it necessary at the time. I needed her to hate me as much as I hated myself for leaving.

After Jasper lost control he knew they had to leave. He couldn't continue to be selfish and endanger her life. He loved her and that's why he left.

"Hmm...I bet she'd like these." Bella?

"I have to go. I think I found her." He told Carlisle quickly before hanging up. He shoved the phone into his pocket and took off in the direction of the voice. It was smooth and melodious and his fear bubbled to the surface. Is she one of us? Did my siblings turn her without telling me?

However, when he located the voice's owner, he instead found Bela. She looks so much like her.

Bella was supposed to live out her days as a human. Happy and safe and mortal. He left for that reason specifically. This has to be Bela. They have the same scars. He had only met Bela a couple of times long ago, but he could never forget the jagged bite marks that a shifter had left behind.

Bela was reading a thesaurus in one hand, and in the other, she held a fistful of purple honeysuckle. She was beautiful, just as she had always been. Smooth pale skin and light gold eyes made her dark brown hair pop. She didn't look angelic in the way that Rosalie did, but she had a look of mystery that enhanced her beauty.

Bela had always looked as though she knew far more than she ever let on. It was her eyes. They held a knowledge that he could never attain, one that looked similar to Alice's, and it had always infuriated him that he could never read her mind and see what all she knew.

She looked at the words on the page contemplatively. "Cherish," she mused. "Let's see her top that." She didn't even look up from the thesaurus when she addressed him. "I'm stuck between two words, and I could very much use a second opinion."

He frowned, it was an odd greeting, but he welcomed the brief distraction. "Cherish and what other word? I'll need context."

"Love is such a boring word, don't you think?" She asked, sparing him a glance. "It holds so much meaning, but it's so simple." There it was again. That spark of knowing. It gleamed so brightly in her eyes and it made him wonder if she knew about Bella. It was as though she could see right through him.

Edward didn't let her rile him. "That's why I like it. It's beautiful that one word can convey so much feeling."

"It's used far too often." She argued. "Love, love, love. People say it all the time without much thought. I do too. But I feel like it takes away from the meaning when we hear it so much."

He nodded slowly. "That makes sense...what two words are you thinking about?" Bela had never been the type to be poetic. He wondered where this was coming from.

She smiled. "I tell Kate I love her so often...I would like to use a different word. I'm stuck between cherish and besotted."

He mulled the words over for a moment before answering. "Cherish leans more towards adoration. Besotted leans more towards infatuation."

"Well, cherish it is." She said. "Infatuation falls in the realm of obsession, and that's not very romantic, is it?"

"It doesn't have to. It depends on the context."

"So you prefer besotted due to its ties with infatuation?"

He frowned. "Infatuation has other meanings outside of obsession."

"Yes. But obsession is still affiliated with it, right?" That knowing smile played on her lips, as if he stepped right into her trap. "Edward. Have you been besotted before?"

Edward felt defensive. "I've been in love..." he deflated slightly. "I am in love."

"Besotted and in love? That sounds messy." She hummed, looking him over for a moment before closing her thesaurus. "I'll tell Kate that I venerate her. It has ties with cherish, and it sounds fancier, though it also falls into the category of worship."

"And worship doesn't fall into the category of obsession?"

"In the context of religion, I would say it doesn't."

"What about in the context of love?" She pondered that for a moment and, not for the first time, he wished he could read her mind. Bela had always been an enigma to him.

"In the context of love...the only thing that should be worshipped is your mate's body." She decided, making his nose wrinkle. Bela laughed at the sight. "So sensitive. Do lesbians and bisexuals frighten you?"

"Of course not. I've never cared about your or Kate's sexual orientation. You know that."

Bela stared at him for a moment before closing her thesaurus. "So it's decided, then? Venerate is a proper stand-in for the word love?" She smiled. "It also means respect, and I have a great deal of respect for my Kate."

Edward felt himself relax, relieved that she was no longer poking fun at him. Often he was made fun of for being a virgin, but he didn't understand why it was so humorous. It was his choice to wait until he found his mate, it was his choice to wait until he married. A few jokes here and there didn't bother him, but Rosalie and Emmett's mocking always got under his skin.

He then nodded. "Perhaps you're right. Venerate is better than both cherish and besotted."

"Obsessed doesn't sound like love, does it?" What do you know?

"Are you nitpicking to irritate me?"

She grinned. "Is it working?" He rolled his eyes and she chuckled. "You didn't answer my question." Bela hummed. "Obsession doesn't sound like love, does it?"

"It doesn't." He agreed. "It sounds unhealthy." He then gestured at the purple honeysuckle in her hand. "Those aren't very good flowers to give as gifts. They're an invasive species."

Bela blinked, looking down at the flowers before sighing. "Shit." She then shrugged. "I'll think of something romantic when I see her. I'm very charming, you know."

This made him chuckle. "You are." He then remembered himself, and he felt shameful for putting off his search for Bella. "Have you happened to see-"

"Bella?" She said, making his eyes widen.

"How did you-"

"She and I are close…" she squinted at him. "Actually, I thought she'd be more...affected when she saw you again. However, I see why she liked you. You're very charming as well. Even when you abandon human girls in the woods and tell them you don't give a shit about them."

"When she saw me again? She knows...wait, she told you about-"

Bela smirked. "As I said, Edward, she and I are close." She turned on her heel and began walking in the direction of the house. He moved quickly to catch up to her, wondering why they were walking when they should be sprinting towards the house already. At least, that's where he assumed Bella was. "Your family isn't too happy with you."

His annoyance vanished, and he looked away from her. "That explains why they've been ignoring me...is Bella angry with me?"

Bela smiled at him, but there was no comfort to be found in her cold gold eyes. "Furious."

Edward nervously ran a hand through his hair. "She has every right to be."

"Why'd you do it." It wasn't a question.

He looked at her again, relieved to see curiosity smother her ire. "She loved me, and I loved her." He said, "To get her to move on, I had to make her hate me." Venom blurred his eyes, "I didn't want to…"

"But you did." She said, sounding indifferent as she tucked her book beneath her arm. "That's some fucked up logic, by the way." She told him, "If you loved her, you wouldn't have done what you did."

He growled at her. "I can still love her despite my terrible decision."

Bela gave him a sideways glance. "And she can still hate you despite your love for her." She shrugged. "Word of advice, don't play the self-loathing card. It doesn't make you seem sympathetic. It makes you seem manipulative."

This startled him. "I...I'm not manipulative. You know I hate what we are."

"See, that's something a manipulator would say." She chastised. "We all know you hate our kind, but that's no excuse for what you've done. Just apologize, recognize you're a dick, and then move on. It might take a while, but Bella won't stay mad forever."

He grit his teeth. "And what would you do in my situation?"

She rolled her eyes. "Edward, I was in your situation." She said. "Don't you remember how Kate and I met? She was human, she decided she wanted to become one of us, and I let my mother turn her." Bela sighed. "It was different for you and Bella. You weren't mates, but you were both in love. You should have given her a choice but...perhaps it's better that you didn't." She said cryptically, "Things worked out in me and Swan's favor, after all. You turning her would have only complicated things."

Edward wasn't sure where to begin. "I was...I really did believe she was my mate."

"Because you were obsessed with her." Bela smiled, but it wasn't a kind one. "You were besotted. Just because you tell yourself something doesn't make it true."

He didn't like where this conversation was going. "What you said earlier. How is this outcome better?"

Bela smiled like she knew a secret. Like she knew something he didn't. "It reunited me with my mate quicker, so perhaps Bella and I should thank you."

"I'm afraid I don't understand."

"You will, in time."

He narrowed his eyes. "You knew I'd be here."

Her smile grew. "Of course I did. Alice told me. She struggles to see visions with the wolves around, but she managed to see you." His surprise must have been evident on his face because she chuckled. "She's been here for a while. She and Rose have been good company. She thought it would be better if I met you out here first. We're the only two that know you're here...perhaps you should leave."

Edward shook his head. "Not without seeing Bella. Not without explaining myself."

"Ignorance is bliss, Edward. You won't like what she's become."

"I don't care if she's one of us." A lie.

They'd be at the house soon. Bela glanced at him. "I'm serious. You're not going to like this...you're not going to like her."

Edward raked a hand through his hair, feeling nervousness flutter in his chest. "I'll always love her." And he meant it.

Bela shook her head. "Did you ever think that maybe she doesn't want to see you?"

The mind reader faltered. "I...I hadn't considered that. But I have to make sure she's alright."

"So predictable." She murmured. "I tried to warn you." He was about to question her when she stopped him with her hand. "Wait here. I should give them a heads up that you've come back." They had arrived at the house, and Bela sped past him and inside.

"You were off picking honeysuckle?" Rosalie's unimpressed voice made Bela laugh. Next time she should take Emmett with her. But hopefully, he wouldn't be stupid enough to pick honeysuckle.

Kate scoffed. "Leave her alone." She then addressed Bela. "What? Those are for me?" My sweet demon.

She picked her flowers? That's so cute! Alice's loud thoughts nearly overshadowed Emmett's.

That's adorable. Maybe I should pick Rosalie some flowers...but she didn't seem very impressed...

"They're an invasive species and they made me think of you, my big strong warrior." She said. "Using your strength to conquer, just like honeysuckle." Edward's eyes widened, surprised she had so easily spun that. "I venerate you, Kate."

The warrior sucked in a breath, "Damn you. This was all a ploy to top my vocabulary."

"This was all a ploy to top you in every way possible." Edward rolled his eyes, quickly leaving Kate's mind when he saw the blonde and the brunette in quite the compromising position.

I don't know what's worse. Her with Edward or her with Kate. Rosalie thought. Actually, I do. Kate and Bella may be gross, but at least Kate makes her happy.

Edward's jaw dropped. "Bella?"

A snarl was heard and so was a sigh. "Goddammit, Edward, you've done it now." Before he could move Kate was on him, wrapping her hands around his throat and taking him to the ground.

Black eyes bore into his gold ones, and he growled at the feel of his skin cracking and giving way to Kate's strength. "You have a lot of nerve coming back here."

AN: 34k, fuck editing and fuck me! Haha, jk...unless...0_0 I was actually gonna make it longer, but you can all think Stoic's Dream! He told me to cut it down! So hate him, not me, for leaving the cliff hanger! :)

Fucking Grammarly kept trying to autocorrect the word sapphics? Blatant homophobia. Just spit in my face! It'd be less insulting!

Me updating on a Sunday? On the Lord's day? On the day of rest? Terrible. I was gonna do it last night but this will be my first AN (I think) that doesn't start off with me complaining about sleep deprivation :D

Not everything got edited because I gotta go to my momma's house soon and I'm already late. Literally sitting here with no pants on and a baggy t-shirt when I was supposed to be at her house a minute ago. But I'll take my ass whooping happily if it means I can feed my hungry gays!

Me, listening to Supermassive Black Hole by Muse while writing the baseball scene, and stopping frequently to dance around my house? It's more likely than you think.

Cyberpunk 2077 is coming out soon...but I will still try to give you homos a nice Christmas gift!

Addy437: Your AN's honestly make my day, and your stories are amazing, keep being amazing! Also mood on the not finding a pretty girl to kiss *dramatic sigh* I wish

Well, your review made my day! I'm glad you like my ramblings. I have ADHD so it's all a MESS! Your reviews are amazing, keep them up! And for real, I haven't had a meaningful gay interaction in so long, it's hard out there. But keep going and keep those lips moisturized and puckered for that special pretty girl! May the gay be with you!

Stoic's Dream: GET SASSED AND WORSHIPPED ROSE, DRUNK BELLAS GOT IT ALL. KorKor your my favourite

Dearest Stoic, you are my favorite! We love a drunk Bella!

rukittenme: You don't know how much this story is singlehandedly carrying my mental health through college. I love you so much for writing and thinking up this story. I think this is the best Twilight fan fiction I've ever read and nothing else will ever compare. I will wait however long it takes for you to write the next chapter. Thanks again! Love you!

The way I teared up reading this. I'm so glad this story is helping you feel better! I love you for writing this review, and for being patient with my slow chapter writing self. You're a gem! I love you! And take good care of yourself :)

AngelaBari: I'm not gonna post your review, only because it's long, but I wanted to address it. You said the story could benefit from more seriousness. I take Bella's closeted sexuality, and her secret love for Rosalie, as a very serious thing. It's an issue that's very close to my heart, as is her internalized homophobia because I've been there. Don't take this as an attack, but as you said, you're straight. This story is tailored for the gays, not that straight people can't read it, obviously, but it's not written with straight people in mind. I take Bella's PTSD with Jasper seriously. I take Rosalie's PTSD seriously. This chapter had a more serious tone because of what I've been building up for the last six chapters. But I also try to make it more lighthearted because I want to. Maybe this story isn't for you, maybe it is. By all means, read away! I like that the story has straight people loving Katella! I just wanted to address your criticism. Again, don't read any of this as me attacking you, because I'm not! Truly! I hope you like it and keep reading, and if not, that's okay too :) stay safe out there.

Sydthekid2002: I'm sorry about hounding you its just this is so well written and this pair so rare I get excited when I see it ya know this stuff is like crack to me I need my fix ma'am or sir or comrade

Aw, Syd I'm not upset! I promise! I appreciate the "please update!" reviews, I'm just iffy on the "update or I will feast on your soul" or the "wow, been a while since you updated, you stupid sapphic bitch." (I haven't really gotten either of those but they made me giggle.) And that's ma'am to you, my dear friend! But I will also accept comrade. Glad you like my shenanigans!

Please review because my phone is currently ringing and it's my momma. I'm suffering the longest lecture of my life when I go to her house. Don't let me die and get beat to death with Bibles in vain!

I LOVE YOU ALL TAKE CARE OF YOURSELVES OR I WILL FIND YOU AND CHERISH YOU!

Update: Since my headass wanna evoke her wrath more by making her wait longer, apparently. She was not happy when she called me. This for real might be it for me LMAO ;_;